Spc. Christopher McInerney, a Va. native, shows off his multiple head shots using paper zombie targets at the weapons qualification range, at FOB Lagman, Zabul prov., Oct. 14. Virginia N.G. 116th IBCT Soldiers, took part in the Halloween-themed training exercise.

ZABUL PROVINCE -- "We survived the zombie apocalypse!" shouted Sgt. 1st Class Brian Powers as the last of the rifles fell silent. Powers, a Va. native with the Virginia Army N.G., was overseeing rifle marksmanship training. The cry "we survived!" meant that enough head shots had been scored by Soldiers of the Staunton-based 116th IBCT to successfully repel the hypothetical zombie apocalypse of the training scenario.

Zombies are fictional slow-moving reanimated corpses made famous by George Romero's classic horror film, "Night of the Living Dead" and AMC's popular TV show, "The Walking Dead." Like most famous pop culture monsters, zombies have a particular weakness: they can only be stopped by destroying or removing the head.

"I only shoot headshots," boasted Spc. Christopher McInerney, who was the best zombie marksman that day. "Zombies can't handle this," he added while striking a heroic pose. All the Soldiers shooting are assigned to the guard detail responsible for the security of the entrance and exit points of the 116th's ops center at FOB Lagman. If necessary, Soldiers are authorized to use deadly force to defend the base. Foot traffic to the ops center is forced to go through a narrow, tactical confine called a fatal funnel - easy to defend, yet hard for an enemy to escape.

"With our fatal funnel set-up, we'd have nothing but head shots," said Sgt. Aaron Stewart of N.C. "Our entry control point is very defensible from a zombie attack, and our level of motivation for today's training speaks for itself: we're ready to kill some zombies."

Guard duty is traditionally one of the most important, but least exciting Army duties. Finding new ways to keep Soldiers engaged and interested was part of the inspiration for the Halloween-themed range. Soldiers stateside normally train on their weapons using automated pop-up targets, and fire from 3 positions: prone supported, prone unsupported, and kneeling. For the simulated zombie apocalypse, Soldiers fired standing or kneeling to replicate real world conditions.

"Here's a dirty little secret," said Sgt. Matthew Barry of Va., "zombie's have a very hard time opening combat locked doors on a vehicle, so get into a vehicle and fire from there."

"Many Soldiers have a hard time opening combat locked doors," joked Spc. Geoffrey Jackson of Va., to approving laughter from other Soldiers. While an armored vehicle appears to make an ideal strong hold, in a crisis it would be limited by fuel levels. According to the "Zombie Survival Guide" by Max Brooks, the ideal vehicle is a bicycle - light, fast, quiet, and easy to move over difficult terrain.

Although the conversations were hypothetical and the training lighthearted, real issues that could have had serious impacts in the event of an insurgent attack were identified as part of the training. Some weapons needed to have their sight posts adjusted. Some Soldiers needed a quick re-familiarization with marksmanship fundamentals. And there was an occasional weapon jam.

"You're shooting all around the head!" said Powers to one Soldier. "If that was a zombie, we'd all be dead." What went unspoken, but was understood by all, was that whether it be a fictitious zombie or real enemy, hitting the target accurately is deadly serious business for Soldiers deployed to Afghanistan.

Staff Sgt. Justin Moshkowski, a Va. native, shows off his multiple head shots.

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Kandahar ANA Soldiers Celebrate Opening of New Military Clinic

Story and photos by Sgt. Thomas Duval

ANA soldiers with the 205th Corps celebrated the opening of a new aid station at Camp Hero, in Kandahar, Oct. 26.

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD – For the past several months, ANA medics have trained with their ISAF counterparts to learn, practice, and ultimately master some of the most advanced medical practices used on today’s battlefields. As a result, hundreds of Afghan combat medics are entering the battlefield better prepared to treat both ANSF, as well as the Afghan populace.

Despite their constant efforts to stay on the forefront of medicine, a lack of supplies and modern facilities continues to hinder Afghan medical personnel, but for the Afghan soldiers in southern Kandahar Prov., that’s a fight that has come to an end.

The new facility features more than 150 rooms and offers many different amenities, such as an X-ray room, pharmacy, a dental room, nursing station, a hearing exam room, and a vision exam room.

“We are very happy to have the new facility,” said Abdun Rahman, a medical doctor with the ANA’s 205th Corps. “We are very appreciative of the American people, and we're excited for the capabilities the updates allow us to perform. We have seen a lot of improvement.” Many of the ANA medical staff shared Rahman’s enthusiasm and were very excited for the future with their new aid station. “In the past, we had a bad facility that made treating patients difficult,” said Abdul Hamid, a nurse with the 205th Corps.

“We're now able to treat, transport and house patients,” said Col. Hakim, medical doctor with ANA’s 205th Corps. Hakim said, "being able to provide 24-hour services to the people of Afghanistan has drastically lowered the number of patients being referred to the higher echelons for care.

A pharmacy stocked with both preventive medicines, as well as over the counter drugs, allows the ANA to treat minor illnesses on the spot with a simple recommendation from the Afghan doctors. Hakim highlighted that since the opening of the aid station, the number of medical evacuations to Kandahar Regional Hospital has gone from 150 to 200 patients a week down to just 3. He said that he hopes to bring the number of medevacs to zero, as more medics and doctors continue to complete advanced training.

Rahman added, "the capabilities of the medical staff and aid station should continue to improve, as the unit prepares to double its current staff as well as its equipment count. The ANA, in support of the ANSF, continues to lead the way in medicine, as well as improve its ability to self-sustain and support lower levels of governance.

Fazal Hayat, a dental asst. with the ANA's 205th Corps, treats a patient at an aid station on Camp Hero.

An ANA soldier with the 205th Corps, prepares prescription medicines for distribution at the pharmacy section.

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Soldiers of the 156th MP Detachment Lay Down the Law

Story and photos by Sgt. Richard Wrigley

Soldiers from the 156th MP Det., attached to the 1st Air Cav Bde (ACB), 1st Cav Div, exit their MRAP all-terrain vehicle outside the Balkh provincial prison, Oct 23. Soldiers of the 156th MP were at the prison in order to fulfill one of their many mission sets, by enrolling the local Afghan national prisoners into a biometric system, enabling coalition and Afghan forces to create a viable database in order to forensically identify criminals.

CAMP MARMAL -- "The primary objective of the 156th MP Det., is to keep law and order in Regional Command North.They've done that … and so much more. With just 45 soldiers in the company, it's amazing that they're able to successfully complete this mission, let alone the multitude of other tasks that they take on," said Capt. Kenneth Murray, a native of W.Va., company cmdr., with an Army N.G. unit out of Monaville, W.Va.

"Some of these additional responsibilities include mentoring and training the various ANSF, and helping with the biometric enrollment of Afghan national prisoners, workers and SecFor," said Murray. "Protecting CF while conducting route recon, area and point security, is also a top priority," he added.

“All of the soldiers here have gone to schools, and are meant to perform in specialized roles, such as criminal investigators, and traffic and accident investigators,” said Murray. “Generally, a law and order det., is augmented by another MP co., which would handle the patrolling, but here we’re forced to be the road MP, as well as the investigator,” he added. "To be dealt all the different mission sets that we’ve been assigned, with the minimal amount of people that we have ... the soldiers are doing a terrific job," said Murray.

Investigator Shane Bryant, a native of W.Va., and team chief of investigations at Camp Marmal, also said that the unit has made significant advances since the beginning of their deployment. “It’s all about building a strong foundation, and then building on top of that. We’re only the 2nd MP unit to be here at Camp Marmal,” Bryant said. “Looking back to what it was like when we first got here, and to what it is now, our unit has made leaps and bounds.”

Success can also be seen in the relationship that has been fostered between the 156th MP DET and its operational parent unit, the 1st ACB. “Working with the 1st ACB has been fantastic,” said Murray, “The support we’ve received from the 1st ACB has been outstanding. They’ve taken us under their wing, and treat us just like any of their other subordinate units.”

"The effect of the MP’s has had a positive effect on the 1st ACB," said Lt. Col. Michael Burns, a native of Ala., and deputy comm. officer of the 1st ACB. “The 1st ACB has definitely benefited from its relationship with the 156th MP Co,” said Burns. “There's no doubt in my mind that soldiers and civilians enjoy a safer and more disciplined environment, because of the presence of Capt. Murray and his soldiers.”

Investigator Shane Bryant takes a picture of a local Afghan prisoner.

Spc. Stephanie Brown, a native of W.Va., and a traffic accident investigator in the 156th, inspects supplies that are being shipped back to the U.S. as soldiers of the 155th Inland Cargo Transfer Co, 10th Trans. Bn, 7th Sust. Bde, prepare to redeploy back to Fort Eustis, Oct. 24. Customs checks all equipment and supplies that are to be shipped back to the U.S., and are one of the many responsibilities of the 156th MP.

Sgt. Christopher Parker (right), a native of W.Va., and an MP patrol supervisor, and Spc. Stephanie Brown inspect supplies that are being shipped back to the U.S.

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District HQ’ Personnel Improve Computer Skills

By Capt. Bonnie Hutchinson

Soldiers from SecFor Assistance Team (SFAT)15, HHC, 2nd STB, 2nd BCT, 4th ID, teach Farah District HQ' workers to send digital reports to their higher HQ, Oct. 15-19. HQ’ workers learned the fundamentals of how to use Microsoft Outlook, Excel and Word in order to understand the different methods of creating reports.

FARAH – Good communication skills are a necessity for a govt to be successful. For most of the HQ’ workers, this was the first time they had used a computer. “Basic computer skills come naturally to the U.S. military,” said Capt. Philip Hardwick, SFAT 15 officer-in-charge. “It's a skill that we should pass onto our ANSF partners, to ensure that we provide them with the tools necessary to effectively coordinate and share info.”

During the training, workers learned the fundamentals of how to use Microsoft Outlook, Excel and Word in order to understand the different methods of creating reports. After they were able to create reports, they learned how to digitally send them. “It's important for CF to train ANSF on the non-tactical aspects of ops,” said Master Sgt. Danny Lujan, SFAT 15 NCO-in-charge. “Being able to more effectively plan and provide info to ANSF at all levels will not only aid in mission planning, but mission execution.”

Soldiers from SFAT 15, instruct Farah District HQ’ workers.

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ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 29, 2011

ISAF.Joint Command - A

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- In Kandahar district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader facilitates roadside bombs for use in attacks throughout the area.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Charkh district, yesterday. The leader is responsible for multiple attacks throughout the region. During the op the SecFor confiscated multiple RPGs.

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California Guardsman Recalls his Palace Life

Story and photos by 1st Lt. Jason Sweeney

Lt. Col. Raymond Watts, a liaison officer for the California Army N.G.’s 40th CAB, points out some of the sights that can be seen from atop the Al Faw Palace in Baghdad.

VICTORY BASE COMPLEX – A San Jose citizen soldier witnessed the final days of America’s 8-year conflict in Iraq from within the ornate halls, offices and conference rooms of the Al-Faw Palace. Over much of the past year, the California Army N.G.’s 40th CAB has commanded more than 259 rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft that have been performing full-spectrum aviation ops across the Iraq Joint Ops Area.

Lt. Col. Raymond Watts, a CH-47 Chinook cargo helicopter pilot, worked out of an office on the third floor of the Al Faw Palace, where he served as a liaison officer for most of 2011. Watts acted as the intermediary between the 40th CAB and its higher command, called United States Forces-Iraq. “This has been the center of gravity for USF-I,” Watts said, shortly before his tenure at Al Faw Palace came to an end. “It has been interesting working here, to say the least.”

Al Faw is a massive structure that dominates an island set in a man-made lake on Victory Base Complex. The palace was built by Saddam Hussein, but was taken over by U.S. forces in 2003, and became an HQ building for USF-I.

For the past 8 years, the halls of Al Faw were walked by some of the highest ranking personnel in the American military and govt. Full-bird cols. could seem as numerous as sgts. on the bridge that led to Al Faw’s arched entrance-way. Generals were a common sight under the huge chandelier that hangs above the palace’s expansive rotunda.

When units needed to move equipment and personnel across Iraq by air, Watts was the man in the middle who coordinated aviation missions with his brigade and the USF-I aviation staff at J33 Air. Watts has been serving as a part-time soldier with the N.G. for the past 31 years. For 15 years, he worked as a technology sales group mgr. in Silicon Valley, while flying Chinooks a weekend a month and 2 weeks a year with the Guard.

But in 2008, the technology company he worked for eliminated his sales group, and his 15-year career in the tech industry came to a halt. He then took a full-time position in Stockton, Calif., as a N.G. CH-47 helicopter facility cmdr., filling in after the previous cmdr. deployed to Iraq.

In 2011, it was Watts’ turn. He said goodbye to his wife and 3 children, and left his home in Calif. for Baghdad, arriving at the Al Faw Palace early this year.

Watts said that his children are somewhat enamored by the idea of their dad working in a palace. “But, being away is hard,” he said. “Granted, there are some luxuries and benefits working in the palace, but it’s the distance that’s been the challenge.”

Driving golf balls into the lake from palace balconies, rubbing elbows with America’s most influential and powerful people, and enjoying some of the Army’s best dining facilities were a few of the amenities. But, incoming mortar rounds were not uncommon, and served as a reminder that hostile forces were still out there.

Watts has left Al Faw for the more austere and isolated conditions at Al Asad Airbase in Iraq’s western desert, where he will finish out his deployment with the 40th CAB. “We’re leaving on our own accord,” Watts said, shortly before saying goodbye to his palace life. “I'm truly blessed to have had this opportunity to work with such a fine group of professionals. The staff here was the best of the best.”

AFGHANISTAN - ANSF and CF worked together in Khowst and Paktya Provs., Oct. 13-21 during Op Duke Blitz, a mission to push Haqqani network insurgents out of the area. The large-scale op, part of an even larger op, spread across 2 provinces. It was led by the ANSF and supported by several bns., from the Fort Knox, Ky.-based 3rd BCT, 1st Inf Div, TF Duke.

The main effort of Op Duke Blitz, dubbed “Op Nike IV,” was assigned to the 3rd BCT’s 1st Bn, 26th Inf Regt, TF Spader. “This op showed that Afghan forces can extend the reach of their govt into the most remote, mountainous areas of Afghanistan, to provide security for the populace," said Army Maj. Ed Hollis, a native of Calif., and the ops officer for the 1st Bn., 26th Inf. Regt.

“The ANA put a great foot forward in an area that has been controlled by insurgents,” said Capt. Joshua Wiles, cmdr. of Co D, 1st Bn., 26th Inf. Regt. “The locals were very receptive to a permanent ANSF presence in the area,” he added.Insurgent attempts to respond to the Afghan and coalition efforts met little success. One notable failure was an attempted complex attack in Gardez City, Paktya prov., Oct 16.

A policeman noticed a suspicious vehicle, and signaled for the driver to stop. A bomb inside the vehicle detonated, and was followed by attempted suicide attacks. Police killed 3 suicide bombers before they could detonate their vests. No civilian injuries were reported from the car blast.

The failed Haqqani efforts to lash out at the Afghan and CF didn’t surprise Army Lt. Col. Jesse Pearson, an Ill. native, and cmdr. of the 1st Bn., 26th Inf. Regt. “This is a center of Haqqani support ops, and that’s why they’re fighting so hard to retain it,” said Pearson. He added that much was learned about the Haqqani network, and how they operate in the area. “Op Nike IV was a very successful op,” said Pearson. “We captured some very important weapons caches and detainees.”

TF Creek sweeps enemy from plains, mountains. 'Shamsheer,' which translated from Dari means 'Sword,' is the name of the mission that brought the soldiers of the 1st Bn., 279th Inf. Regt. to the forefront of the fight. This prong of Op Duke Blitz was aimed at disrupting insurgent freedom of movement, and targeting locations associated with insurgent leadership in Zormat district, Paktya prov.

Similar to its parent op, Shamsheer was extremely successful in all respects, said Army Lt. Col. Chuck Booze, an Okla. resident, and cmdr. of the Oklahoma N.G.’s 1st Bn., 279th Inf., TF Creek. He added that the lingering benefits of moving unhindered into Haqqani network HQ, while experiencing no harassment, may prove to be the most lasting impact. “This op demonstrates the continued development and capabilities of the ANSF in taking the fight to the insurgency,” Booze said.

ANA, AUP and several companies of TF Creek soldiers collaborated to remove weapons caches, IEDs, and safe havens that had been used by insurgent forces. The efforts were directly responsible for the capture of a known Haqqani sub-cmdr.

Booze echoed the sentiments of fellow Op Duke Blitz officers, noting that the greatest benefits of the related ops may have been the reception offered by local citizens to the Afghan troops, and that reception’s effect upon the Haqqanis. “We continue to see that when ANSF move into an area, the population responds favorably, and the insurgency is powerless to stop them,” he said.

TF Raider sends tremors through Haqqanis. For Troop C of the 6th Sqdn, 4th Cav Regt, TF Raider, 'Op Raider Earthquake' began before the sun rose on Oct. 19. Air-lifted by helicopter to the Qalandar area, the troopers moved on to the village of Star Kot. "In the village itself, we ended up finding some anti-tank mines, grenades, a lot of machine gun ammo, 3 AK-47s and numerous mags,” said Capt. Mark Snowbarger, an infantryman from Ohio, and the cmdr. of Troop C, 6th Sqdn. 4th Cav. Regt.

Snowbarger credits good intel for leading them to the house where the cache was discovered. “The intel was very good, and the source was very descriptive," said Snowbarger, who further explained that, "according to villagers, the homeowner had left several days earlier, allegedly for Pakistan."

From there, Troop C moved on to the next objective. Another cache was discovered in northern Nadir Shah Khot, consisting of 8 mortar rounds, recoilless rifle and RPG rounds, and small-arms ammo. In addition to praising the performance of his troops, Snowbarger also felt that the ANSF performance was noteworthy, not only by providing security, but in responding to the needs of the people.

"The ANA did a very good job with the outer cordon part of the objective areas,” Snowbarger said. "In Starkot, the AUP conducted about a 45-minute key leader engagement (KLE) at the end with village elders, ensuring they knew who to contact for security concerns.”

"The cavalry was also there to support the main effort, with Troop A setting a blocking position to the west of TF Spader's objectives in Musa Khel," said Capt. Dean Carter, cmdr. of Troop A. Carter, a native of Fla., said the blocking position prevented any insurgents from fleeing to the west. "The ANA were in the lead on the blocking position, searching all vehicles and personnel moving through the position. We mentored them in the procedures up front, and they took the mission from there,” said Carter.

"Insurgents may also find it increasingly more difficult to fund next year's fighting season," said Carter, due to ANA destruction of almost 30 acres of hashish.

Staff Sgt. James Richardson (left) and 1st Lt. Bruce Griffin of both of Okla. (center), discuss current ops with their ANA partners during Op Shamsheer, in Paktya prov. Both soldiers are part of the 1st Bn., 279th Inf Regt, out of Tulsa, Okla. (Army photo by Staff Sgt. Samantha Bennett)

Army soldiers of Co D, 1st Bn, 26th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, TF Duke, climb a hill in Musa Khel District, Oct. 15. The soldiers were participating in Op Nike IV, part of a brigade-wide op to root out the Haqqani network in eastern Afghanistan. (Army photos by 2nd Lt. James Hodges)

Army Pfc. Levi Baldon, a Colo., native and infantryman attached to TF Duke, searches a home in Musa Khel District for contraband.

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Blackanthem Military News

Maj. Gen. William Mayville Visits FOB Salerno

Story and photos by Spc. Tobey White

Maj. Gen. William Mayville, comm. gen. of the 1st ID based out of Fort Riley, Kan., awards the purple heart to several soldiers of the 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, at FOB Salerno, Oct. 24. After the ceremony, Mayville visited with key military leaders from TF Duke as part of a multi-day tour of ops in Regional Command-East.

KHOWST PROVINCE -- Before attending the planned briefings, Mayville awarded the Purple Heart Medal to 9 soldiers for their contributions and sacrifices to the country. "You're doing a fantastic job," Mayville said after presenting the awards to the recipients. "This is a complicated place to fight."

He reminded soldiers that although the end of their deployment is right around the corner they need to stay focused on the task at hand. "Keep your eye on what is in front of you. You are about to enter a danger zone mentally," he warned. "Stay focused and that day will come."

After the awards ceremony, he attended a briefing on TF Duke current ops, and plans for the winter months. The briefing gave him a chance to understand the experiences that soldiers face on the ground.

Later, he flew to Camp Clark with Army Col. Chris Toner, cmdr. of TF Duke, and a native of Kan., to speak with ANA and TF Duke Soldiers about ops in the area. "This is about more than just fighting insurgents," Mayville said. "It's about making sure our partners have the capability to carry on the fight after we're gone. You're doing an awesome job."

He toured the HQ of the 6th Sqdn., 4th Cav Regt, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, and the ANA, and asked questions about the partnership between the 2 groups and their operating procedures. He closed the day by reminding soldiers of the men and women who stayed behind at Fort Knox, and are working to prepare the way for the Duke Bde to come home.

Maj. Gen. William Mayville met with ANA Soldiers on FOB Clark, Oct. 25. While on FOB Clark, Mayville awarded 3 Army Commendation Medals for valor, and attended briefings about ops in the area.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE – More than 1,500 Afghans attended an inauguration ceremony at the new governor’s compound and jirga meeting hall, for the opening of the 1st provincial sports center, in eastern Afghanistan. Groups of local youth and adult sports teams joined with elders, tribal leaders and govt officials to participate in the ceremony, which also included recently-completed development projects.

“I’m here for the opening, to watch the performances, and listen to the speakers,” said Za Biuhllah, a 12-year old student from Gardez. Biuhllah added he would like to take up kick boxing and hopes to compete as a member of the Afghan Olympic team.

“I'm thankful for the support I’ve received from Paktiya and the CF,” said Gov. Juma Hamdard, during the inauguration ceremony. “We’ve opened and completed many projects in my 4 years as gov.”

“PRT Paktiya partners with the Afghan Govt to support development and governance for Afghans,” said AF Col. James Forand, from Mass., the provincial PRT cmdr. “Our team of military and civilian members work hand-in-hand with Afghans to facilitate reconstruction efforts in Paktiya prov., as they progress toward a sustainable transition.”

The sports complex. (AF photo courtesy)

Provincial kickboxing teams celebrate the GoA during a sports complex opening. The complex includes 360-degree seating, a distinguished guest area, and a sports field.

More than 1,500 Afghans gathered to witness the opening.

Gov. Hamdard accepts an award from the provincial council, in recognition for recent developmental advances in Paktiya prov.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

ANA Begins Community Outreach in Nijrab

Written by French Army 1st Lt. Aurelie Lattes

An Afghan Soldier delivers supplies to the teachers of the Zarshoy School for Girls in Nijrab district, Oct. 17. Along with French troops from TF La Fayette, the ANA mission expanded their community outreach.

KAPISA PROVINCE — Visiting the Zarshoy School for Girls, Oct. 17, ANA troops delivered school supplies and volleyball equipment to the students and teachers. The aim of this mission was to evaluate, along with the principal and the academic inspector, requirements for building new classrooms and toilet facilities for the girls.

Afghan children receive school supplies. The visit to the Zarshoy School for Girls marks the start of a community outreach mission to the district, to strengthen and improve ANA relationships. (Photos courtesy of TF La Fayette PAO)

The principal, teachers and academic officials discuss requirements for building new classrooms and toilet facilities, with ANA leaders and members of the French Operating, Mentoring and Liaison Team, TF La Fayette.

A young school girl shows off her first school kit, donated by Soldiers from the ANA’s 201st Corps. The visit marks the beginning of ANA community outreach missions in the district; reinforcing their commitment to the citizens.

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ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 28, 2011

ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

East

NANGARHAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained numerous suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in Khugyani district, Oct. 27. The facilitator provides weapons, ammo, and roadside bombs to insurgents in the region. Multiple weapons were confiscated.

----- Three insurgents were killed in Khowst District Center, after engaging Afghan forces with mortar rounds, yesterday. AUP detained 9 individuals, suspected of throwing an IED at an AUP checkpoint in Khowst District Center.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- In Pul-e ‘Alam district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader, yesterday. The leader directs attacks and distributes weapons throughout the area for use against Afghan and CF.

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op to disrupt an insurgent network in Gelan district, yesterday. The network is responsible for multiple attacks and ambushes against Afghan and CF.

----- Two insurgents were killed during an airstrike in Zankhan district, after possessing PKM and RPG weapon systems, yesterday.

KUNAR PROVINCE -- Three insurgents were killed in Nari district after they were spotted before a rocket attack on a coalition base, and another 3 were killed in Bar Kunar district, during airstrikes after they attacked a coalition observation post (OP).

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- Three insurgents were detained by ANA and CF for illegally having weapons on their possession in Gardez district, yesterday. CF seized a weapons cache consisting of 150 x 7.62 rounds, an AK-47 and a 82 mm mortar round.

-----Another 3 were detained by CF, after testing positive for explosive residues in Zurmat district.

Operations in RC-East are still ongoing.

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Soldiers Continue Legacy at COB Kalsu

Story and photos by Sgt. John Couffer

Soldiers of the 1st Bde, 1st Cav div, stand at attention, with their right hands raised, reciting the Oath of Enlistment, Oct 27. These soldiers decided to further their military careers, during a reenlistment ceremony, as OND draws to a close.

COB KALSU – Lt. Col. Stephen Dawson, the cmdr. of the 1st BSTB, 1st Bde, 1st Cav Div, had some special words for these soldiers. “It’s an honor and privilege this morning to be able to inaugurate your re-enlistment, to reaffirm your oath to the U.S. The Army is a profession, the most honorable and noble profession in all the U.S., and it's the most trusted profession,” said Dawson.

Some of these soldiers are re-enlisting for the first time, deciding to carry on Army life for another few years. “Originally, I was going to do 3 years and get out. Then I started looking back; there's nothing back home for me,” said Ill. native, Spc. Steven Solomon, a petroleum supply specialist, assigned to HHC, 1st BSTB.

Solomon said that he looks forward to becoming a warrant officer or a CID agent, during his next installment of Army life. He would also like to go to Alaska or Germany at some point in the next few years. He said it all depends on what happens in the next 2 years. “The Army gives you a guaranteed job for the next few years, get some education, free benefits; all you have to do is raise your right hand,” Solomon said.

“Even with the Army drawing down, retention is still very important,” said Sgt. Joaquin Goicoechea, an ops sgt., who practices retention responsibilities, assigned to HHT, 1st Bde, 1st Cav Div. Goicoechea said that he would advise all soldiers who are considering re-enlisting, to look at their available options prior to reenlisting. He said, "if you have family, it's best to discuss this with them. A soldier with family support is one that is set up for success.

"In making the decision to re-enlist," Goicoechea said, "it's more than a soldier signing a contract; the Army is making an obligation as well. When signing a contract, the Army makes a deal to pay and care for the soldier and their families for up to 6 years. “Nowhere in the U.S. are you going to find someone willing to pay you and promote you for doing your job, and guarantee that deal for up to 6 years,” Goicoechea said.

For some soldiers, it's their 2nd or 3rd time signing a contract, and for a select few, they've signed papers for the last time until retirement. “I love the Army; I love my job; I’m glad to be here,” said Puerto Rico native, Staff Sgt. Antonio Rodriguez, a squad leader assigned to Co C, 1st BSTB. “Everything I have, the Army gave me, and I’m not complaining.”

Rodriguez explained that he enlisted because he has always liked the Army, and he was looking for something he could do for a long time. Rodriguez originally planned on getting out after his first term, because of his experiences in the Army. He discussed the issue with his wife; she urged him to give the Army another shot. It's now 10 years later, and today marks his 5th and final enlistment until retirement.

“Most soldiers today reenlist because they love what the Army stands for, and are proud to be serving with their fellow brothers and sisters in the Armed Forces,” said Master Sgt. Cynthia Kling, a native of Texas, and the senior career counselor for the 1st Bde, 1st Cav Div. "When considering re-enlistment, all questions should be addressed to one’s career counselor, as re-enlistment policies are constantly changing, and the opportunities of the past are not there anymore," Kling said.

Lt. Col. Stephen Dawson, cmdr., administers the Oath of Enlistment. Dawson said that he's proud to be part of moments like these, to see soldiers make and fulfill commitments to their nation and the Army.

Spc. Joby Daugherty, an infantryman from Mo., assigned to Co D, 1st Bn, 279th Inf Regt, TF Creek, checks his e-mail and accesses family photos on COP Dand Patan, Oct. 20. The COP’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation center holds phones, computers, a card table, a DVD player and a projector, as well as half a dozen well padded lounge chairs for maximum movie watching comfort.

PAKTYA PROVINCE – There aren’t many amenities on remote COP Dand Patand, near the Pakistan border, but the soldiers of Co D make the most of their free time in their MWR center. “Having easy and constant access to phones to call friends and family back home is a nice way to take a mental break, and enjoy keeping up with what's going on back home,” said Pvt. Patrick McCrory, an infantryman from N.M.

“Being able to log on at anytime and check email, and see pictures of my wife and kids helps me on a daily basis,” said Spc. Joby Daugherty. “Just being able to see what my family is doing, gives me a sense that even though I’m away, I’m not missing my kids grow-up.”

Pvt. 1st Class Lauren Boyles, a petroleum supply specialist from Okla., uses the internet in a different way. “It’s awesome that I can order comfort items from Amazon, and receive them in Afghanistan,” said Boyles, “It takes a while to get here, but it’s worth the wait.”

When not shopping or staying in touch with their loved ones, many of the TF Creek soldiers use the gym to keep themselves fit to fight. The gym, named in honor of Sgt. Brent Maher, a Fallen Soldier from the Iowa Army N.G., who was killed in action last summer, and served on COP Dand Patan, houses 3 treadmills, 2 elliptical machines, various free weights, weight machines and exercise mats.

“Going to the gym helps me remain mission ready and in peak physical shape,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Gray, an infantryman from Tenn. “I also find it a great way to wind down from a stressful day, and it keeps me mentally sharp as well.”

Sgt. David Holcomb, an administrative specialist from Okla., has lost over 20-lbs since deploying. “I throw on my body armor, and road march on the treadmill, or crank up the incline and walk up to 5 miles a day,” he said.

“The MWR is a great place for soldiers to get together and play video games, watch a movie, or just relax and play cards,” said 1st Sgt. James Boyer, Okla. native, and 1st sgt.

Staff Sgt. Christopher Gray works on his sit-ups at the Sgt. Brent Maher Memorial Gym.

COP LION - Deep in the village of Do' ab, near the tip of the Horn of Panjwa' i, lies COP Lion; the month-old COP is where Pfc. Sky Nosaka, of Colo., now calls home. Nosaka spent the past 5 months working as a medic in the clinics at Kandahar Airfield (KAF), FOB Zangabad and COP Mushan before, ultimately, setting up shop at COP Lion as a line medic.

The COP offers little of life's perks he experienced at KAF, like hot meals, daily showers, and the privacy of a bathroom stall, but he wouldn‟t have it any other way. "I like Lion a lot better than the other places before here. Things are a lot more serious down here," explained Nosaka. "I wanted to be a Soldier. I especially wanted to come to Afghanistan and feel like I've made a difference," he said.

Nosaka had a desire to be a line medic with an infantry company, and, while it wasn't a guarantee he would be assigned to a line unit once he graduated Advanced Individual Training, he said he was happy to find out he would be joining the 1/25th at Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

With half of his first deployment completed, Nosaka said that he's thankful it has been somewhat quiet. To date, he has only provided medical treatment to local Afghans. Medics are often exposed to the horrors of war, while treating the wounded, and are expected to expertly perform under pressure.

"It's easier, in a sense. Medics will tell you that if it's one of your own guys, it's harder, and I don't doubt that," he said. "With the local nationals, we see gunshot wounds and amputations. They respond well to having us treat them. I think they're starting to trust us, and are appreciative of what we can do for them."

In his down time, Nosaka likes to make life at COP Lion as comfortable as possible for him and his battle buddies. Up bright and early, he spends his time cleaning the Role I aid station he both works and lives in. He can be found cooking hot meals on a makeshift grill — a hole in the ground filled with charcoal — or working on his carpentry skills by building shelves, and a horse shoe pit. He doesn‟t mind getting dirty. "I lived in the woods growing up, so this is all sort of the norm for me," he joked.

While it may be too quiet for some, he's looking forward to spending the rest of his deployment away from the busier life normally experienced at larger FOBs and bases. In his line of work, he said, "quiet is a good thing."

Pfc. Sky Nosaka prepares a makeshift grill before cooking.

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DVIDS

Recruits Train to Fight for Peace at KMTC

Story and photos by Sgt. April Campbell

ANA Pvt. Imran Hashmaei practices the pass and review, prior to his graduation from basic training at the Kabul Military Training Center (KMTC), Oct. 20. For the 4th Basic Training Kandak soldiers, the ceremony marked the culmination of an 8-week transition from civilian to soldier. Hashmaei will serve as an infantryman with the ANA’s 201st Corps in Nangarhar prov.

KABUL – The graduates walked proudly across the stage that morning, not yet knowing where they would work, but certainly knowing for whom. Dressed not in caps and gowns, but berets and their military uniforms, these 1,400 Afghan soldiers had trained long and hard for this day.

“There has been a big change. When we first came, we were civilians, so we didn’t know anything. Now, after 8 weeks, we're in the frame of mind of the army,” said ANA Pvt. Mohammad Ghamy. As a civilian, Ghamy had seen the effects of the Taliban on his community. “There were no jobs, and I saw so much fighting going on in my district, so I wanted to come and join the Ministry of Defense – come and serve my country,” Ghamy said. “My family encouraged me to join the military, serve the country, get the enemies out of our country, and help rebuild it.”

Where Pvt. Imran Hashmaei lived, the responsibility for security has transitioned largely into the hands of the Afghans. The sight of ANA soldiers in the local media encouraged his decision to serve. “When I saw the ANA training on the TV, I really liked the uniform. I talked to my family and said I wanted to join the military. My family supported me and said I could join,” Hashmaei said.

“When the soldiers come to KMTC, we tell them about their appearance, and the way of living in the army. We tell them how they need to be disciplined and how they need to appear, as long as they're going to be soldiers in the future,” said ANA Lt. Col. Habib Wardak, KMTC’s 4th Basic Training Kandak cmdr.

That new way of living only seemed to strengthen their desire to make it through training. “I felt like my fellow countrymen were beside me,” said Ghamy. “They all spoke Dari and Pashtu. I didn’t feel nervous or scared.” Donning the uniform for the first time inspired the soldiers even more. “When I wear my uniform, I don’t feel different, but I have the passion to serve my country,” said Hashmaei.

That courage and passion served these soldiers well, as they tackled the challenges of basic training. These challenges are greater than for many of their counterparts around the world, as these soldiers must first learn to read and write. “The majority of the U.S. soldiers come in the military with a 12-year education, but the Afghan soldiers come in with zero education. By the time they leave basic training, they'll have received up to 60 hours, which will train them to read at a 3rd grade level, so they can read, write and basically understand more than they could when they got here,” said U.S. Army 1st Lt. Jaymon Bell, of Co A, 3rd Bn, 4th Inf Regt. Bell, of Tenn., advises the cmdr. of the 1st Basic Training Kandak at KMTC.

This opportunity to read and write was the first for Ghamy. “This is the first time I'm getting literacy training,” Ghamy said. “I was a desert boy, a country boy, and I’d never seen it until I came into the ANA.” He hopes the education he receives in the military will help give him the opportunity to offer the children he'll have one day, a better future. “I didn't have an education, so I joined the service as an enlisted soldier,” he said. “If my children become educated, they'll be doctors or engrs., and be able to serve Afghanistan that way.”

Following their initial reading and writing lessons, the soldiers were able to move on to the more tactical side of basic training. With the ISAF service members primarily filling an advisory role, ANA drill instructors, like 1st Sgt. Hamad, conducted their training. “This training is very useful in the field after the recruits become part of the regular army,” Hamad said. “When they graduate, these tactics are useful against the enemy.”

“We've learned everything they've taught us completely – the basic fundamentals of marksmanship, assembling and reassembling weapons, the grenade range, a ten-kilometer ruck march, and live shooting with the M16,” Ghamy said.“The urban training and the live-fire were the most interesting for me,” said Ghamy. "I'll remember them forever.”

As for Hashmaei, the novelty of the weapons range has yet to wear off. “Everything I’ve learned here is interesting to me, because I want to be a soldier, but the most interesting part was shooting the M240B automatic rifle and the M249 squad automatic weapon,” Hashmaei said. “When I got here, I hadn't shot a weapon. The first time I got a weapon, I became more encouraged, and I get braver every day.”

Upon their graduation, the soldiers were told where they'll serve and employ their new skills. “I'm really proud of them,” said Wardak. “On the first day when they came here, they were villagers who didn’t know how to read, how to write, or how to shoot the weapons. Since they’ve been at basic training, there have been a lot of changes in their lives.”

The soldiers also appreciate these changes in themselves. “I'm much different,” said Ghamy. “I've been through 2 months of training, and I've learned a lot. I can use this training to save my life and save my country.” With that salvation, these Afghan soldiers who have trained well to fight the enemy today, hope to see a lasting peace in Afghanistan’s future.

“The people are tired of war, and I don’t want war anymore either, so I will serve my country to solve that problem,” Hashmaei said. “There'll be no more fighting in my country, and I'll do my best to make sure of that.”

ANA Pvt. Ghamy (center right), goes eyes right with his fellow soldiers, as they pass by the reviewing stand.

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Blackanthem Military News

Forces find over 5,000-lbs of IED material at Weesh Border Crossing

Afghan Border Police (ABP) discovered a truck at the Weesh Border Crossing containing over 5,000-lbs of bags filled with ammonium nitrate, October 21. (US Army Photo)

FOB SPIN BOLDAK - "Ammonium nitrate has been banned in Afghanistan, due to its use as home-made explosives and IEDs," said 1st Lt. Peter Conrardy, the EO of Bravo Troop. "This find highlights our partnership with the Afghans," he continued. "It also furthers our purpose of helping make Afghanistan a better and safer place for their people and the ABP here."

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ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

ISAF Joint Command Evening Operational Update, Oct. 27, 2011

South

URUZGAN PROVINCE — During a security op throughout the week in Shahid-E Hasas district, ANSF and CF spotted, and were engaged by insurgents from several fighting positions. The patrol returned fire, resulting in the death of several insurgents to include the group’s leader. The leader was responsible for coordinating prison escapes, facilitating IED, and suicide bombing attacks, and supplying lethal aid to insurgents. Several insurgents were detained.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- In Nahr-E Saraj district, a combined Afghan and coalition security patrol detained an insurgent leader, during an op that occurred throughout the week. The insurgent leader was a tactical cmdr., responsible for planning attacks against ANSF and CF. The op also seized a quantity of small arms.

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IRAQI STORY:

Convoys Prepare to Leave COB Adder

Story and photos by Spc. Anthony T Zane

The first truck of a large convoy carrying military tactical vehicles pulls out of the staging area on COB Adder, Oct. 25.

COB ADDER – Each day the number of convoys leaving Iraq is growing as OND nears the end of mission. Oct. has been a busy month, as many of the individual military units on COB Adder are packing up and sending equipment back home. "More and more convoys of vehicles and equipment are being packed up and shipped out in preparation to exit Iraq," said Staff Sgt. Erick Torres, convoy cmdr., 233rd Trans. Co, from Ala.

Each truck carrying military vehicles. including High-Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles, MRAP vehicles, and tanks is backed up to a ramp, and the vehicles are carefully loaded onto the flatbeds. “The most challenging part of this job is loading the vehicles,” said Torres.

Once the cargo is loaded onto the trucks and the paperwork is complete, the convoy is then lined up at a designated staging area to await departure. The U.S. still has thousands of Soldiers, and an abundance of equipment that need to be shipped home before the year's end. Soldiers and civilian contractors work long hours to make sure equipment is packed properly and ready for transit.

"Part of being the convoy cmdr. is identifying vehicles and equipment by serial number, and matching them against the unit rosters before they're shipped," said Torres. "It makes for long days, but it's a necessary part of the process," he said. "Each convoy is assigned a security team to escort the cargo from COB Adder to their final destination," said Torres.

Flatbed trucks carrying high-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles and other cargo are lined up and ready for departure, Oct. 25.

High-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles are chained down to the flatbeds of the trucks.

COMBAT OUTPOST JAKER – Cornfields, dirt paths, tree lines, and canals dominate the backcountry of Nawa district. This rugged, fertile community is quite the sight to see, a place where residents wear traditional attire, and live an agrarian lifestyle that may seem like a scene from the past.

The AUP conduct routine partnered patrols in the area with Marines from Charlie Co, to maintain a security presence, and to train the AUP in patrolling, as they learn to operate more independently in the district. The Marines arrived to the area in early June to assist their Afghan partners, and some noted the area is not what they expected.

“There aren't really improved roads,” said Ga. native LCpl. Kevin Brakhage, an assaultman with Charlie Co. “A lot of them are gravel; half of them are hardly there. A lot of times, they just slap some sticks down to make bridges, with some branches and stuff over it. Sometimes it’s really thin, like just a stick that’s not even as wide as your foot, and we have to cross that.”

The landscape of Nawa has also surprised Brakhage. He was not expecting the area to be so lush and green, expecting it instead to be arid and mountainous. Others compare Nawa’s landscape to places back in the U.S. “Rural Pa., that’s kind of what it looks like, but it’s different, because you’re not going to see houses made of brick and mortar; you see them made of mud and straw, and 120 degrees,” said Nev. native LCpl. Daniel Wilson.

The heat, agricultural focus, and lack of technology in Nawa promote a slow-paced lifestyle, as does the area’s increased stability. The area has seen a tremendous decline in insurgent activity, since the Afghan govt took control of the area in 2009, but the Marines must remain in a constant state of alert for potential dangers.

“You’ve got to make sure everybody’s where they need to be, doing what they’re supposed to be doing, watching their sectors of fire,” said Wilson, 24. “I’m checking myself constantly, making sure I’m looking up, also looking down, and making sure I’m not stepping on a pressure plate.”

The Marines maintain a security presence in the area, and focus on watching diligently for potential dangers, to set a good example as mentors for the AUP, so the AUP can learn proper patrolling techniques, and the importance of discipline.

“We do a lot of presence and security patrols,” said Brakhage. “We’ll go out there and take the AUP with us, and show them how things are supposed to be going on, let them interact with the people. We teach those guys, and they do a really good job – they’re learning.”

The AUP have taught the Marines as well, pointing out things on patrols the Marines otherwise wouldn’t think twice about. “As far as searching, they notice a lot of stuff Marines don’t,” said Brakhage. “They know their culture better, so if something’s going on over here, and that guy’s not wearing the right clothes, or because he’s not from this area or something, they'll notice and we’ll investigate. They’re really helpful. The people respond to them really well.”

The people seem happy with the presence of the troops. Children approach the Marines, asking them for candy, while Afghan men come outside to relax at night. Marines and AUP offer food to the kids and greetings to the adults. “At night, usually the older men relax on a huge rug, and they’ll just chat about everything,” said Mass. native LCpl. Matt Callahan, a machine gunner.

The slow pace serves as a testament to the hard work of CF in the area. The people no longer have to be afraid of insurgents and can live their lives for themselves and their families.

LCpl. Daniel Wilson (left) watches as other Marines with Charlie Co, patrol next to a cornfield. The Marines were en route to the banks of the nearby Helmand River.

Marines with Charlie Co, reunite with the rest of their squad, during a patrol stop in Nawa district. These Marines returned to the rest of their squad after pushing further down the banks of the adjacent Helmand River.

An AUP patrolman overlooks the Helmand River. This area of Nawa district has a complex water system of canals and streams, allowing for agriculture and greenery to grow throughout.

Ariz. native LCpl. Ammon Carter, a combat cameraman attached to Charlie Co, looks back to check the rear of a patrol.

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DVIDS

TF Leatherneck Forces Taliban out of Upper Sangin Valley

Story by Maj. Bradley Gordon

An ANA Soldier takes a water break during ops along Route 611 between Sangin and Kajaki. The soldier is taking time to address an Afghan youth’s concern about their mission to rid the region of Taliban-led insurgents. (Official Marine Corps Photos by Staff Sgt. Ryan Smith)

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Helmand province -- CF with TF Leatherneck have kicked off Op Tofan Sharq (Eastern Storm), a major offensive op to root out the Taliban-led insurgency, in the Upper Sangin Valley region of Kajaki. After 5 days of pushing north from Sangin along Route 611, Coalition and ANSF have pushed the insurgency out of Kajaki and secured the road leading to the once-terrorized village.

“We are assisting the ANA’s 215th Corps to secure the main road between Sangin and Kajaki,” stated Brig. Gen. Lewis Craparotta, comm. gen., TF Leatherneck. “Senior Taliban cmdrs. have been killed or forced into the northern portion of Helmand. The conditions are being set to encourage families to move back to Kajaki, into their homes in order to allow life to get back to normal. We're giving the people an opportunity to live in peace, something they've not had in years.”

The Taliban was well-anchored in the area surrounding the dam, creating a significant security threat for any contractors willing to work in the area, and local residents. Recent opposition by local tribal leaders had developed toward insurgent activities in the area. This dissension is believed to be from the heavy taxation the Taliban had imposed on local Afghans, who used the resources provided by the dam.

The Kajaki Dam is the main power source for Sangin, and most of the Upper Sangin Valley. Originally constructed in 1953 as a result of an irrigation project by the USAID, recent reconstruction efforts have been slow and difficult. Security will enable repairs to existing power grids, as well as improvements to the irrigation system.

“We have an opportunity to improve the irrigation system for the farmers with limited investment,” said Craparotta. “Security and overall quality of life will change in the coming months.”

TF Leatherneck made many efforts to warn area insurgents through leaflet drops and radio messaging. These communication methods were used to give insurgents a chance to reintegrate with the GoA. “The insurgents knew we were coming, but they didn’t know when or how,“ said Craparotta. “The Marines in the field, fighting side-by-side with our Afghan partners overwhelmed the enemy. What is left of the insurgent force has probably withdrawn to the north.”

Marine Corps Cpl. Nathaniel Mullet, a Team Leader with RCT-8, watches the explosive charge detonate in Sangin. Marines clear obstructions in tree lines with explosives to gain better observation from their guard posts.

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DVIDS

Georgia Marine Turns Hobby into Career

Story and photos by Cpl. Marco Mancha

23-year-old Sgt. Christopher Holmstrom looks out over his vehicle during a convoy. The Ga. native is a Light Armored Vehicle mechanic with 2nd Light Armored Recon Bn, and is on his 2nd combat deployment in Afghanistan.

PATROL BASE WOLFPACK, Helmand province -- “There’s one thing my stepdad told me that I’ll never forget: ‘If you always have a trade, you'll never go hungry.’” Holmstrom found out at a young age that he loved working with his hands, and figuring out how things worked. As years passed, his curiosity for discovering how remote controlled cars and Robocop worked evolved into taking apart engines on vehicles, and putting them back together. Today, he continues his love for mechanics, working on 12-ton vehicles.

“90% of my learning mechanics was self-taught,” explained Holmstrom. “I had always wanted to be a mechanic, and if you ever passed by my house, there’d be a good chance you’d catch me working on my vehicle.” When he wasn’t working as a mechanic, and practicing gymnastics as a secondary hobby on his time off, Holmstrom said he really had no direction as a young man, and didn’t make it easy on his parents. The troublesome teenager still wasn’t unruly enough, however, for his mother and stepfather to give up on him. Holmstrom explained with a smile that he wouldn’t be where he’s at today if it wasn’t for them.

Holmstrom wasted no time putting his father’s advice to good use, after realizing the potential his parents saw in him. He wanted to make a change in his life to better himself, and to make his mother and father proud. From that point on the mechanical prodigy spent most of his free-time under a hood.

He had finally found his trade, but he said he still wanted to accomplish something bigger. The 5-foot-10-inch Georgian decided to enlist and become one of 'The Few, The Proud.' “I joined because I wanted to make my parents proud,” said Holmstrom. “I had a lot of people disappointed in me growing up, and I wanted to change that. I wanted to become a better person.”

Holmstrom now finds himself on his 3rd deployment – his 2nd time in Afghanistan – nearly 5 years after joining. He’s still a mechanic, but now he works on Light Armored Vehicles, a pricey piece of equipment averaging $900,000 per vehicle. It’s Holmstrom’s job as an LAV mechanic to keep the 20-foot-long vehicle running. He’s changed, placed, and rebuilt more than 20 engines, since arriving in Afghanistan 6 months ago.

His hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed, and the Marines around him recognize his dedication. One Marine called Holmstrom an important member of the team of LAV mechanics. “He’s a good mechanic, because he worked with all types of vehicles outside the Marine Corps,” said fellow LAV mechanic Cpl. Austin Lange of Wisc. “I mean he knows exactly how an engine works, and he suggests things that are really good. He's definitely a necessary asset to the team.”

The team of a little more than a dozen Marines has learned a lot from Holmstrom, according to Lange. He said Holmstrom helped teach the rest of the mechanics as much as he could about the LAVs throughout the deployment. “I don’t just do it for myself, but for the Marines around me,” explained Holmstrom. “It’s like I said before; I do my best everyday to make my mom and dad proud. They believed in me even at my worst of times, and I just want to thank them for that. Mom, Dad, thank you.”

Sgt. Christopher Holmstrom scans the area while on a convoy patrol. The LAV mechanic has been on dozens of convoy missions since arriving in Afghanistan earlier this year.

Holmstrom continues his love for mechanics, working on 12-ton vehicles in the Marine Corps.

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DVIDS

Agribusiness Development Team Trains Agricultural Agent on Demo Farm

Story and photo by Army Sgt. Kaitlyn Ashby

Staff Sgt. Paul Hellmich, the engr. for the Indiana N.G.'s 4-19th ADT from Ind., trains Matun district agricultural extension agent (AEA) Nazifulla (center), on FOB Salerno, Oct. 20. Nazifulla was invited to FOB Salerno to discuss his current plans for Matun, and receive training on farming techniques. The soldiers of the ADT showed Nazifulla their demo farm, and practical methods of refining crops for better food security.

KHOWST PROVINCE – During the training, Staff Sgt. Paul Hellmich demonstrated gardening fundamentals in greenhouses, that mimic horticultural farming to the agent, Nazifulla. “It was nice to see an AEA actually come to Salerno and meet us on our demo farm, because I think it’s highly beneficial in teaching them how to do their job more effectively,” said Hellmich.

The ADT’s farm crew also showed Nazifulla compost pits, test plots, trees, a wheat field, and a chicken coop, and answered questions he had throughout the training. “The work Staff Sgt. Hellmich and the farm crew have done the last 2 months has really paid off,” said Sgt. 1st Class Tyron McNeal, the ADT’s farm crew supervisor from Ind. “The result of yesterday’s first AEA visit was a combination of American ingenuity and Afghan determination. We all look forward to future visits with other AEAs.”

When the visit ended, Nazifulla received soil testing kits to distribute to farmers in his district. “I hope more extension agents show up for more training,” said Spc. Bradley Darling, an agricultural development specialist for the ADT from Ind. “I know it would make a difference.”

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 27, 2011

ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

South

NIMROZ PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op to disrupt an insurgent network, as part of an ongoing op throughout the week in Khash Rod district, Oct. 25. The SecFor seized 88-lbs (40 kgs) of ammonium nitrate and other IED components.

ZABUL PROVINCE -- In Qalat district, a combined Afghan and coaltion SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader coordinates the placement of roadside bombs throughout the area, and plans attacks against CF. Bomb making materials were confiscated.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Panjwa’i district, yesterday. The leader acquires heavy munitions for insurgents, and plans ambush vehicle attacks throughout the region.

East

PAKTIYA PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed one insurgent and detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Zurmat district, Oct. 26. The leader constructs and stores roadside bombs and other weapons, and is also responsible for leading insurgent attacks against Afghan forces in both Zurmat and Gardez districts. Multiple rifles and grenades were confiscated.

A CH-47 Chinook is about to take off, before a mission on the night of October 6, 2011, on Camp Taji.

CAMP TAJI -- Flight engrs. play an integral role during CH-47 Chinook cargo helicopter flights. They're the eyes in the rear of the aircraft, providing vital info to the pilots, the muscle that handles cargo, and they ensure the safety of passengers that are strapped in for the ride.

"I am a Chinook pilot, and when we're in the seat, we can't see behind us," said Capt. Benjamin Winborn, of the 2nd General Support Aviation Bn, 211th Aviation Regt, an Army N.G. unit from Minnesota and Iowa. Winborn is the cmdr. of B Co. "The flight engrs. provide us with aircraft clearance when we're flying. They load the passengers and cargo, and are in charge of how the aircraft is loaded."

B Co is currently deployed to Camp Taji, with the 1st General Support Aviation Bn, 171st Aviation Regt, a Georgia Army N.G. unit, attached to the 40th CAB from the California Army N.G. B Co is the only Chinook unit left in Iraq. Chinooks are typically flown during the nighttime hours to capitalize on the additional protection offered by darkness. As a result, the unit adopted the motto "All Night Long" from the title of a popular Lionel Ritchie tune.

The Chinook is a large tandem rotor helicopter with a rotor diameter of 60 feet. At more than 98 feet long, the pilots rely heavily on the flight engrs., to keep them informed on what's happening around the aircraft at all times. The Chinook is the Army's go-to heavy lift helicopter and equipment transporter. It's able to transport 33 troops and their gear, or 3 pallets of cargo, or a sling load (cargo suspended below the aircraft), or a combination of the 3, up to 26,000-lbs.

"The flight engrs. in the Chinooks are really valuable. The amount of crew coordination that takes place between the pilots and the flight engrs., is through the roof," said Capt. John Allen, 40th CAB, a Brigade staff officer and Chinook pilot from Calif. "They've instruments in the back that we can't see, so we depend on them to know what they're looking at, then be able to articulate it to us up in the front."

"Some of the biggest challenges we face here are loading the cargo and people into the aircraft. Things are not always the same shape and size that we'd like," said Sgt. Joe Loscheider, flight engr. with the 2-211th, and a Minn. native. "It can easily be compared to playing Tetris at times."

"We are kind of like a moving co.," said Sgt. Andrew Anderson, flight engr., and a Minn. native. "The pilots are the drivers, and we're the muscle in the back getting it all done."

"Last month we flew more than 1,100 hours, which is a record for our airframe according to AMCOM (U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command)," said Winborn.

With so many flights going out, the crews are hardly the same for each mission, and they often find themselves flying and working with different people on each flight. Every now and then the flight engrs. may find themselves flying with the 40th CAB's cmdr., Col. Mitch Medigovich, who is a Chinook pilot.

"It's fun to be able to fly around with the brigade cmdr.," said Loscheider. "He treats us like one of the guys. It's very informal; plus, it's nice to be able to just talk and have fun with the colonel."

"The Chinooks have been important any time we've had any drawdowns, repostures, or closing of bases. We move anything and everything we can to help expedite the whole process," said Allen. "Plus, we help take a load off the C-130s (cargo planes) and other fixed-wing assets, and oftentimes we are the sole provider of aerial assets to the bases that can't support fixed-wing aircraft."

Sgt. Joe Loscheider prepares to move his M240B machine gun into position, prior to heading out on a mission, the night of October 7, 2011.

A CH-47 Chinook prepares to lift a container of equipment off the ground, on the night of October 6, 2011.

A flight engr. keeps a vigilant eye out for trouble, while flying a mission the night of October 6, 2011.

1st Lt. Zachary Weigelt, an Iowa native, presents a picture of Marine Capt. Matthew Freeman, to teachers at a school for boys, Oct. 18. Soldiers with C Co, 40th Engr Bn, 170th IBCT delivered roughly 100-lbs of school supplies, provided by The Matthew Freeman Project: Pens and Paper for Peace.

SHOR TEPAH – “Thank you for this,” said Mohammad Qul, a principal at a school for boys. He paused, “and we are so sorry for her,” he added. The “her” Qul referred to was the mother of fallen Marine Capt. Matthew Freeman. Teachers stood around him holding new school supplies. Three microscopes drew the most excitement – a 300% increase in the school’s stock.

According to the project’s website, Freeman called his mother 2 days before he was killed in action in Afghanistan, and said, “Mom, the kids would rather have pens and paper more than anything, even food and water. Would you please start a collection and send them to me?” His family saw to his wish.

As they entered the school’s courtyard, C Co Soldiers were greeted by applause from children who waited in rows. Quiet, grateful and visibly awestricken, students filed by as soldiers, who couldn’t contain their smiles, handed out pens, pencils and paper. The reserved composure of the students gave way to laughter only after the soldiers, in full body armor, started tossing a pink flying disc.

“It’s definitely a feel good thing,” said Sgt. 1st Class Eric Fontaine, a R.I. native, now the 40th Engr Bn NCO-in-charge of civil affairs. Orgs. like the Richmond Hill, Ga.- based Freeman Project provide items not covered by larger, U.S.-funded infrastructure projects. Missions like the one in Shor Tepah not only provide immediate assistance to recipients, but also allow soldiers to interact with Afghan citizens and govt officials. "Face-to-face events build a much needed rapport with people U.S. service members are trying to help," Fontaine said.

“You can’t just show up and be respected,” Fontaine said. “It has to be something earned or deserved, or that precedes you.” Fontaine coordinated missions to give supplies to students in each of the bn’s 5 districts of responsibility. Although long-term benefits lie in missions for charity, the direct impact on the student can't be ignored. Qul said, "one pencil or pen can last a student 2 to 3 months, and glue twice as long."

After presenting supplies to Qul and his teachers, 1st Lt. Zachary Weigelt told the faculty about Freeman and his family.He held a picture of the Marine. “I’d like to have the family come here, so we can thank them and the kids can thank them,” Qul said to Weigelt. “One day, we'll have peace, and they can come to Afghanistan and visit.”

A teacher holds a microscope as 1st Lt. Zachary Weigelt hands out supplies.

A student catches a flying disc from an Army soldier.

Pvt. Amanda Parker, a Kan. native, now a mechanic with C Co, hands a pencil to a student.

Sgt. Aloysius Goodshield, a squad leader, and a S.D. native, hands a pen to a student.

Children wait to receive supplies at a school for boys.

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Marines Continue Operation Eastern Storm

Story by 1st Lt. Timothy Irish

Nev. native LCpl. Daniel Wilson, a fireteam leader with TF Leatherneck, patrols through a cornfield in Helmand prov. Some of the Marines were surprised with the vast amount of vegetation in the region, when they started major offensive ops against the Taliban-led insurgency, expecting instead to be operating in barren terrain like other areas of Helmand prov. (Photos by Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde)

FOB DELARAM II — Op Eastern Storm continues to secure Route 611 from Sangin’s District Center to the Kajaki Dam. Marines from Regimental Combat Team (RCT) 8 and ANSF with the 215th Corps, ANA are participating in this op.Securing this route opens a vital corridor for local citizens, Afghan govt officials, and merchants, to transit rapidly between several districts, giving residents a freedom of movement they haven’t experienced in more than a decade. Route 611 branches north off of Highway 1, also known as Ring Road, a major paved road encircling the nation.

“The people of the Upper Sangin Valley and Kajaki District have asked us to help them rid their homes of the insurgency,” said Col. Eric Smith, comm. officer of RCT-8. “The area immediately surrounding the dam will no longer be just a bubble of security. Opening Route 611 allows the people to visit the markets in Sangin and Gereshk, and travel to the provincial capitol of Lashkar Gah. They're as much our allies in this op as is the Afghan soldier fighting alongside the Marine riflemen,” said Smith.

Increased security gains in the district of Sangin and Helmand prov., in the past 2 years have allowed coalition and ANSF to shift their attention north. “What you have is 2 security bubbles being connected and consolidated. The bubble around the Kajaki Dam is being connected to the bubble around Sangin’s District Center,” said Smith. “The insurgents have nowhere to go but out.”

Many local citizens have left the area, and those remaining suffered from Taliban murder and intimidation campaigns. The lack of ANSF or CF in the past has allowed parts of the area to become an insurgent safe-haven. The introduction of U.S. Marines and Afghan soldiers has been a welcomed sign.

“Overall, the mood appears to be one of gratitude and relief -- gratitude that someone is there to help them get back to their lives, because insurgents have been there for so long,” commented Maj. William Sablan, the ops officer for RCT-8. “Some locals have approached the Marines and asked them if they can get back to farming, praying at the local mosque, and shopping in the bazaar. Really it's just relief that they can get back to normal everyday life,” said Sablan.

The op is still ongoing, yet it signifies an end to the Taliban’s ability to operate freely in Helmand prov. Coalition and ANSF forces have met with little enemy resistance, as engagements with insurgents have been limited to the discovery of IEDs, and small-arms firefights. “The overwhelming force of Afghan soldiers, police and U.S. Marines continues to push the insurgency out of the region,” said Brig. Gen. Lewis Craparotta, cmdr., TF Leatherneck.

FOB NOLAY -- Many of the familiar trappings of life are half a world away from the small base nestled atop a hill on the outskirts of the Sangin Valley, but a handful of the Buckeye State’s own, who are based, here have found echoes of home in each other. Ohio natives Keeton, Bolander, Kaethow and Roos are Marine Corps reservists, who've spent the last 3 months shoulder-to-shoulder supporting combat ops in Helmand prov.

The rush of war has drawn the quartet closer, but other familiarities existed among them long before their boots touched down in Afghanistan. Their parent unit, with which they perform their monthly drills together, is MP Co Charlie, based in Dayton, Ohio. “It’s great being out here with these guys,” said LCpl. Adam Roos, a married father of one daughter. “To be able to talk about home and our families, and get to know the guys you drill with back home is nice. It makes us that much tighter,” he said.

Cpls. Ryan Kaethow and Joshua Keeton are also married with children. “We’d spend time together on drill weekends, and our wives still talk now that we're gone,” said Kaethow, who drives the lead truck for his platoon’s security team within the company. “There’s a closeness.”

This closeness is, in part, rooted in another combat zone. The men chewed some of the same dirt during a deployment in support of OIF, when they were activated in 2009. They returned home in January 2010. A year ago, each of them was nearly settled back into their respective post-deployment lives as college students, restaurant mgrs., and tree trimmers, when the opportunity for active service came knocking once again. Though they had been home for barely a year, all 3 men, along with security team leader Sgt. Thomas Bolander, volunteered to head to Afghanistan.

The Marines are currently tasked with daily missions, escorting resupply convoys throughout their AO. On occasion, they complete multiple trips in one day. The pace is a grueling one, but in the end, they all agree that their time and effort, factor into a greater purpose. “It’s all about support,” said Kaethow, as he explained how critical it is to ensure the riflemen have what they need to continue the fight. “We fuel their ops.”

The 4, along with the rest of CLB-6, still have a few months to go before they head back stateside. Though the busy schedule before them occupies nearly every minute of every waking hour, Ohio is never far from their minds. "I just miss being at home with my family, friends, and my dog," said Bolander.

Kaethow’s daughter, now 2-years-old, was born while he was in Iraq. He looks forward to spending time with her and his wife. “We keep up in e-mails and pictures, but I’ve missed a lot of developments,” he said. “I just want to watch her grow up.”

The unit is currently fighting its way through the Upper Sangin Valley of Northern Helmand prov. “It’s an honor to be part of CLB-6, and to do our part to support 1/6,” said Bolander.

Kelley, who serves as a vehicle cmdr. and navigator, added, “By the time we left Iraq, things were winding down, but here it’s fast paced … a lot more activity. It’s great to be a part of something so big. I’m proud to hit both wars of my generation.”

Cpl. Joshua Kelley serves as a vehicle cmdr. and navigator

Sgt. Thomas Bolander is a security team leader.

Cpl. Ryan Kaethow drives the lead truck for his platoon’s security team.

PAKTYA PROVINCE -- Trauma is an unfortunate reality of war, but military medical teams provide care to service members and the local population, increasing their chances to return home safely to their loved ones. “I worked with the medics on COP Herrera during training for this deployment, then again when I was on another mission,” McGarvey said. “When I heard they were going to be without a physician's asst., I saw an opportunity to help out and fill in the vacancy.”

Herrera is one of the leading COPs in Paktya prov., for treating trauma cases. Since July, the medical team has treated 25 life-threatening traumas, countless burns, and several broken bones and cuts. “The experience and knowledge that Capt. McGarvey brought has helped us become a better aid station,” said Army Sgt. John Lowe, from Okla., the NCO-in -charge of the 1st Bn, 279th Inf Regt aid station. “He has taught us advanced medical techniques, and how to improve our ops.”

During McGarvey’s stay, the team treated their worst burn patient to date, when a 1-year-old boy with severe burns over 50% of his body was brought in for treatment at the clinic. “During that trauma, Capt. McGarvey ensured that we provided the correct medicines, and the proper amounts at the right time,” Lowe said. “With his knowledge and experience we were able to stabilize the patient after 3 hours, so he could be transported to a higher level care facility.”

“It was a great opportunity to work with and learn from, this medical team,” McGarvey said. “Their experience and medical knowledge clearly exceeds that of their peers and I’d love to work with them again.”

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 26, 2011

ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

North

KUNDUZ PROVINCE -- In Aliabad district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader coordinates attacks with other insurgent leaders in both Afghanistan and Pakistan.

South

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Marjah district, yesterday. The leader distributes and directs the placement of various victim-initiated IEDs. While securing the building, a female child was wounded. The SecFor provided initial treatment at the scene, and then transported the child to a coalition medical facility for further care.

----- In Sperah district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader, yesterday. The leader places roadside bombs and plans small arms attacks in the Sperah district center.

WARDAK PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader during a security op in Sayyidabad district, yesterday. The leader is responsible for the movement of fighters and abductions of Afghan govt officials. Two additional suspected insurgents were detained.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Superchargers Working to Score A+

Courtesy Story and photo by 4th Sust. Brigade

Warrant Officer 1 Scott Garrett, a communication systems tech., with the 189th CSSB, 4th Sust Bde, 310th ESC, and Capt. Mark Williams, a communication systems officer with the 189th CSSB, and a native of Ill., set up a Very Small Aperture Terminal on the roof of the 189th CSSB HQ building.

AL ASAD AIR BASE – Capt. Mark Williams and Pfc. Rashaad McMannen, an info systems specialist with the 189th CSSB, seized an opportunity to expand their knowledge, and attended a civilian industry A+ certification prep class at Baghdad Signal University. Soldiers need to be proficient in a myriad of different tasks that enable them to perform their duties in support of the mission, especially when deployed to a combat zone.

Along with being proficient at basic soldiering skills, a specialized group of Soldiers within the 189th CSSB also provide automations and network support to the bn., and its supported units. These signal Soldiers have already received the highest quality of industry training from the Army School of Info Technology (IT) for their Military Occupational Specialty training. But, as the IT field continues to grow and change, so must a Soldier’s skill set.

“CompTIA is one of the main certification authorities for IT professionals,” Williams said. “They're commonly known as the voice of the world's IT industry. As a non-profit trade assn., advancing the global interests of IT professionals and companies, they focus on 4 main areas: education, certification, advocacy and philanthropy.”

The class that Williams and McMannen attended concentrated on preparing them to take and pass the CompTIA A+ certification exam upon redeployment. This certification is coveted, because it provides the credentials to expand administrative rights and capabilities, which normally lead to expanding careers.

CompTIA A+ certification validates foundation-level knowledge and skills necessary for a career in personal computer support. Two exams are necessary to be certified: the CompTIA A+ Essentials and CompTIA A+ Practical Application tests.

“While working in the IT field, it’s important to demonstrate your knowledge of how computers work, and how to troubleshoot problems,” McMannen said. “The A+ certification prep course gave me a better foundation for understanding how computers work. The class provided a good starting point for achieving my certification.”

Williams has a background in general mgt., and sought the opportunity to attend the class in order to broaden his knowledge about the way computer systems operate. “I had minimal computer experience before joining the Army and becoming a signal officer.” Williams said. “The A+ class further helped me understand how a computer is put together, and how the different components work with one another, transforming what looks like just a box into a tool that has come to mean so much to our society.”

Once soldiers obtain the CompTIA A+ certification, they'll be industry-certified with the credentials to access various types of computer hardware and software, and to hold positions in various types of orgs., as systems administrators."This A+ certification is seen as a spring board to other, more specialized certifications that could further enhance their careers and marketability," Williams said.

Cpl. James Baker, a mortarman, and a native of Mass., stands behind a MK-19 grenade launcher, while standing Post 1 at PB Boldak, Helmand prov., Oct. 1. Boldak is the first line of defense for Camp Leatherneck, the largest coalition base in Helmand prov. It's manned by Weapons Co., 1st Bn., 25th Marines, a reserve unit based out of Fort Devens, Mass.

PATROL BASE BOLDAK – A horde of flies swarm above Cpl. James Baker’s head. They repeatedly swoop down and buzz around his face. He quickly swats one away, only to swat another moments later. Baker has been standing inside of a sandbag bunker, the size of an office cubicle for the past 6 hours. On his desk sits a MK-19 grenade launcher pointing towards the endless expanse of the Afghan desert.

Baker is manning an observation post (OP). It's a duty that lasts several hours, in which Marines watch for suspicious activity, and serve as the first responders in case of an enemy attack. Today, the only attack is coming from the hundreds of flies dive-bombing Baker’s face. “I’ve killed like 80 flies…at least it seems that way,” said Baker. “They don’t go away. You can keep killing them, and they just keep coming.”

A couple hundred yards away, an Afghan farmer is herding hundreds of sheep. That's all Baker really sees while on post. Every once in a while the silence is broken by another Marine’s voice on a radio.

The guard post scene is typical for Marines at Boldak. For Baker, his day started before sunrise when he replaced another Marine on a similar several hour-long shift. In addition to his body armor and helmet, he wears a metal bracelet with the name “Cpl. Nicholas Xiarhos” engraved on it. Xiarhos was Baker’s best friend growing up. He was killed by an IED 2 years ago in the Garmsir district while serving with 2nd Bn., 8th Marines.

“Living on a PB is like living in a perpetual Groundhog Day,” said Cpl. Ryan Arsenault, a mortarman, and a native of Mass. “Time kind of stands still. Your life stops, but the world keeps going.”

The perpetual Groundhog Day Arsenault refers to consists of routine…and more routine. When the Marines here wake up, they shave, shower and conduct other morning necessities. However, there is no plumbing on Boldak. The Marines hygiene using bottled water with a hole punched in the cap, and rear-view mirrors broken off armored vehicles to see their reflection. They shower using baby wipes, or by grabbing some bottled water and stepping inside a room that looks like a telephone booth made out of plywood.

Once they're done with hygiene, the Marines quickly eat breakfast, which consists of Pop-Tarts, packaged muffins or dry cereal. From there, they go to work. If a Marine is not standing post, he's on a patrol. If he's not on a patrol, then he's cleaning or maintaining some part of the base, filling the generators with fuel, or finishing a project like building a new kennel for the military working dogs.

If the Marines have any free time, they exercise in the “prison gym,” which is a collection of free weights located in a dusty, dimly lit tent. At dusk, the Marines gather around a large wooden table and eat dinner together. On rare occasions, meat is taken out of a freezer and prepared with some canned vegetables, in a makeshift barbeque grill made out of a fuel drum. Paper plates piled with food are delivered to the Marines who are standing post.

The conversations at dinner are reminiscent of friends meeting together at a tavern. In distinct New England accents, Marines can be heard griping about work, and about the Red Sox losing their last few games of the season. They frequently burst out in laughter from the ruthless joking and needling going back and forth.

“We’re all from the same area,” said Arsenault. “We all love the same sports teams. We all know the same places. It’s different in the fleet where you have people from different backgrounds. Here everyone is almost the same person.”

If there's a patrol going out the next day, the Marines will gather around a map to plan and discuss where they'll be patrolling. Once the meeting is concluded, the Marines retire to their tents to watch a movie. Some prepare the armored vehicles for patrolling the next day.

At night, the Afghan sky is filled with stars, and the occasional helicopter or jet flying by. To the north are the bright lights of Leatherneck. To the south are the districts of Nad’Ali and Nahr-e-Sara, where firefights between U.K. troops and insurgents can be seen from time to time.

The next morning, the routine starts over again. About once a week, a convoy will come in from Leatherneck carrying mail and care packages from home. Marines trade snacks and magazines sent from family and friends with each other, and throw the rest underneath their cots.

Other than traditional mail, there's really no other way to contact home. Periodically, the Marines will rotate back to Leatherneck for a week of quick reaction force (QRF) duty. There they'll be able to use the wireless internet to get on Facebook and email.

Staff Sgt. Jeremy Greenfield, a plt. sgt., and a native of Wash., enjoys being in the austere environment that he and his Marines have made home. “I like Boldak,” said Greenfield. “I wish I could stay up here. There’s less going on; no phones or computers. It’s more of a sense of pride and ownership, because we own it. The Marines have been working to make it our own piece of home.”

LCpl. Adam Chaffee, a mortarman, and a native of N.H., watches the sun set while manning a post at PB Boldak.

Marines hygiene at PB Boldak.

Sgt. Nathan Matos, a squad leader, and a native of Mass., fills a generator used to power the combat ops center.

Cpl. Marcus Yeakel, an anti-tank missileman, and a native of Kan., reads a newspaper.

Marines go through a care package recently delivered in a convoy.

Sgt. Chris Thurlow, a military working dog handler, watches a movie to unwind in his tent.

Sgt. Jake Miller, a section leader, and a native of R.I, gets food prepared in a fuel drum, cut in half to make a barbeque grill.

Cpl. Mackenzie Richards, a military working dog handler, and a native of R.I., conducts physical training with John, an explosives detection dog.

Cpl. Russ McDonald (left) and Lance Cpl. Justen Kazan, both mortarmen, and natives of Mass, exercise in the “prison gym.”

Airmen with the 58th Sqdn, Royal AF, prepare to go out on patrol at PB Boldak, Sept. 30. Marines frequently partner with UK and Afghan troops, to conduct patrols throughout TF Belleau Wood’s area of ops (AO).

Lt. Col. Angela Quintalla, based out of Fort Bragg, N.C., assigned to the Forward Surgical Team attached to 3rd BCT, 25th ID, TF Bronco, stands at the 9/11 Memorial on FOB Fenty, in Nangarhar prov., after running the Army Ten Miler Shadow Run, Oct. 2.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – For many, running ten miles might be a daunting pursuit, but few consider how hard it would be to run a 10 mile race with only leg, or while deployed to a combat zone. For Angela and Peter Quintalla, running the Army 10-Miler was a different experience than it was for other runners.

Lt. Col. Angela Quintalla ran the race this year while deployed in the Eastern region of Afghanistan, while her husband, a former Special Forces soldier, ran on the Nine-Line Team, a group of Wounded Warriors, in Washington, D.C. It's the third time he has run the race with a prosthetic leg. But running a 10 mile race was not always an option for Peter.

Peter was wounded in a training accident in 1997, but did not lose his leg until 2004. Peter’s initial prosthetic was not very accommodating.

“After soldiers began to return from combat in Afghanistan and Iraq with more war injuries, prosthetics got to be more advanced,” said Quintalla. “Initially it was a bit more difficult for Peter, because he had to get used to what they gave him. But now, through Care Coalition, Peter has gone from basic amputee to high-functioning.”

Care Coalition is an org., which provides services for injured Special Forces warriors in any phase of a recovery, to include various services such as education programs, and benefits for family members who may have lost their soldier. The org. caters not only to SF, but to injured Rangers, Delta Force, and Navy Seal service members.

“He was able to find Nine-Line through Care Coalition, and they sponsored him going to the race this year,” said Angela. Aside from sponsoring Peter for the race, there are various other amenities Care Coalition has provided.

“Although Peter is now a very functional member of regular society again, and is out of the military, he continues to have certain medical needs,” said Angela, “and Care Coalition provides that.”

As a couple, the Quintallas have had to re-arrange their lives in various ways, but the one thing which has not changed is their determination to succeed together. “We're the same as we've always been. There were just little things we had to change,” said Angela. “We have to make sure we take a little bit of extra time to plan trips, and make sure they've the proper amenities for Peter, but we just do what we have to do, and have gotten used to it. This is our life and we're living it like any normal family would, but with certain differences.”

As for the race, Peter adds that he's amazed at those who come to run, who have it much worse than him. “There are those running the race with multiple limbs missing,” he said. “It’s always an inspiration to see them out there.”

“I, of course wish we could've run the race together, but when I was in those last few miles, and needed a little extra push, I thought of those running against much more adversity, and I believed it gave me an extra push,” said Angela.

The story of Angela and Peter is one of perseverance and caring. Angela still says Peter is her “rock,” and Peter still worries about her while she serves in a war zone. This year, the Quintallas will continue to draw from each other and their supporting orgs, such as Care Coalition to get through their time apart, but mostly on each other. “He has always amazed me,” she concluded.

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Cannons Help Gain Territory in Operation Eastern Storm

Story and photos by Cpl. Clayton Vonderahe

Marines with Btry E, 2nd Bn, 12th Marine Regt, walk along the perilous Route 611, during a recent patrol through the area. The road is notorious for having IEDs buried in the ground and is pock-marked with craters from exploded IEDs.

FOB ZEEBRUGGE, Helmand province -- Howitzers recently fired over the mountains of Kajaki, striking targets they couldn't even see. Marines with Btry E, inserted themselves into an abandoned compound, under the cover of night to establish OP New York. The cannons rang out in support of the insertion, eliminating enemies holding positions against the Marines.

The btry. is currently supporting Op Tofan Sharq (Eastern Storm), a major offensive op to root out the Taliban-led insurgency in the Upper Sangin Valley region of Kajaki. The unit is working to push insurgents out of the area, ultimately increasing their ability to connect with 1st Bn, 6th Marine Regt, moving north from Sangin, and rid the “Green Zone” along the Helmand River of insurgents.

"To put it into perspective, Kajaki is kind of split into 2 parts," explained 1st Lt. Daniel Ealy, an artillery officer and W.Va., native. "Kajaki north is called Olya, and Kajaki south is Sofla. All the insurgents are in Sofla. We went down to where the border of Oyla and Sofla are, and we set in there. We essentially blocked them off from the north."

The Marines are blocking off the insurgent presence along Route 611, which is a north-south route from Sangin along the Helmand River, where the Marines, ANA, and AUP maintain a commanding presence.

In this area, Route 611 is a winding, dirt road, pock-marked with craters where IEDs have detonated. It's the width of a standard 2-lane street, but the only place safe to walk along the road, is a narrow path of no more than 2 feet wide, mainly identifiable by the unmistakable path created by the heavy foot traffic moving unwaveringly down the slim path. This is a stark contrast to the Route 611 south of the Sangin Bazaar, where it is paved and includes distinctly marked lanes, and even the occasional billboard.

The few civilians traveling Route 611 tend to stick to the poorly outlined path, aware of the hazards in a misplaced footstep. Civilians still occasionally travel the path, but the area is nearly completely deserted of its residents.

"The insurgents had forced everybody out of the area a long time ago," said Ealy. "The only thing citizens were allowed to do was come up during the daytime and farm, but not stay there at night. That's one of the things we're trying to do, allow them to come back into their areas, their residences. We're doing this so they can try to start a normal life again on their properties."

The Btry E Marines met heavy resistance shortly after securing PB New York. The insurgents responded to the Marines with mortar strikes, RPGs, machine gun and sniper rifle fire. The Marines swiftly responded with 2 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System strikes, 2 requests for fire support from the howitzer cannons, and an air strike.

"Everything is going smoothly," said Cpl. Sean Fullaway, the lead IED sweeper, and a Col. native. "Just by looking at it, you can tell this is a strategic location to have, and if it's strategic to us, it's strategic for the insurgents to have as well."

The new OP was attacked for 2 consecutive days, after the initial insertion of forces. The Marines and ANA soldiers worked in shifts performing a constant cycle of patrols through the area, and guarding the base from potential attacks.

Suppressing the insurgent presence in the area, provides the Marines and soldiers with the ability to clear the road of threats, and clear a path from the Kajaki District Center to FOB Zeebrugge. This allows the Marines to work with the area’s district gov., to make it safe for the local population to return to the Kajaki area.

"Our intentions are for the population’s good," said Fullaway. "We're trying to return their land that they rightfully own, back to them, and take the insurgents out of the area. One of the greatest moments for me was going through Sharp’s Alley."

Sharp’s Alley is a stretch of heavily vegetated land, that has been used to store weapons and contraband inside abandoned compounds for use against the Marines. The stretch of land was a hot spot for insurgent activity to any Marine presence before the insertion.

The Marines are currently holding the area, and blocking it from further insurgent activity, while 1st Bn clears Route 611 so it can, in time, become a safe road for travel.

Cpl. Ruben Morales, a motor transportation operator, places razor wire around the perimeter of the base to help secure it against enemy forces. The base received heavy resistance from insurgents during the initial days of the op to establish the location.

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Partnered Operations Secure Southern Laghman

Story by Spc. Leslie Goble

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – The 1st Bn, 179th Inf, 45th IBCT recently conducted a joint air assault op, that took place in several valleys surrounding Bad Pakh district, and included soldiers from the ANA, and members of the AUP.

This is the 1st bn-wide joint op securing crucial areas of Laghman prov. The op only strengthened the partnership between the 201st Corps and 45th IBCT, showing the ANSF taking the lead.

“They have a great advantage here,” said Capt. Brent Weece, cmdr. of Co C, 1st Bn, referring to partnering with Afghan forces, taking the lead in navigating through the terrain. “That’s why we're partnered.”

The units were air lifted in, and made their way down the mountains to search villages for IED making materials, small arms caches, and illegal drugs. The mission was to search the villages of the valley for any illegal activity, and to re-establish security in the valleys surrounding Bad Pakh district.

A fire fight broke out early in the op, resulting in 2 Coalition injuries whose wounds were not serious. Five insurgents were killed in the process by air strikes. No civilians were injured during the week-long joint op, that resulted in finding several weapons caches, more than 200- lbs of opium, an IED, and components used to make suicide vests.

In another valley joint forces spoke with local village leaders about the safety and security of the region. The village elders were humble, inviting, and allowed the Afghan forces to search the villages for caches. The leaders in the Shura also discussed expanding basic amenities deeper into the rural areas in the valleys. The elders spoke of needing roads, electrical power, and a medical clinic when the area becomes more secure.

ADTs and PRTs usually work in the more secure areas, since their primary goal is to build sustainable infrastructure for the districts. The teams are planning for a research and development farm, and a District Center in the area.

The 45th IBCT also conducted the largest aerial resupply, since their involvement in OEF, flying in more than 2 tons of water, food, and supplies for CF and their Afghan counterparts, in several different locations. Crews on the ground along with UH-60 Black Hawks, worked night and day to make sure the units were properly resupplied throughout the op.

“Resupply is the lifeblood of the op,” said Capt. John Fagan, the HHC, 179th Inf. logistics officer.

WARDAK PROVINCE -- In Sayyidabad district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator, yesterday. The facilitator is responsible for conducting abductions, roadside bomb, and direct fire attacks throughout the region.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor conducted an op in search of a Taliban leader in Zurmat district, yesterday. The leader constructs and stores roadside bombs and other weapons. He also leads insurgents in attacks against Afghan forces in both Zurmat and Gardez districts. The SecFor confiscated bomb making materials.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE -- In Ziruk district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Haqqani network facilitator, yesterday. The facilitator specializes in roadside bomb construction, and provides explosives training to fellow insurgent leaders in the area.

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IRAQ STORY:

USF-Iraq

American Service Members go the Distance with Iraqi Olympians

Story and photos by Sgt. A.M. LaVey

Members of the Iraqi men's mid-to-long distance Olympic running team enjoy lunch, after a run with American service members, Oct. 23. American service members got the chance to train and run a 5-k with the Olympians, during a goodwill visit, that included a running clinic.

AL ASAD AIR BASE -- "We asked them to come down and share their training routine, and some of the challenges of training that they face here in Iraq with us," said Lt. Gen. Frank Helmick, deputy comm. gen. for ops, United States Forces-Iraq.

The team, half of its members also in the IA running club, have interacted with American troops once before, but it was limited to a game of soccer. "We love the Americans," said Waud Disman, half-marathoner and team member. "We wanted to meet and run with them."

Military relations have been strengthened through sport participation, since the ancient beginning of the Olympic Games, and an event like this is a type of diplomacy that can transcend cultural differences, and bring soldiers from different nations together.

"There are no nationalities or religions in sports," said Helmick. "Athletics and fitness transcends all those different boundaries." American forces, throughout the last 8 years, have made it a point to use sports to reach out to the Iraqi people.

"I think it's most important that we expose as many Iraqis as we can to our military," said Helmick. "Our service members are great ambassadors to the world. I really think that there are no relationships between countries; there are only relationships between people," said Helmick, "and we're working to strengthen these relationships in Iraq every day."

Unlike American professional athletes, these runners receive only a living stipend of the equivalent of 200 U.S. dollars a month, which the runners must use to purchase their own equipment, pay for training, and feed their families.

After hearing that some of the team were running in bare feet, because they couldn't afford shoes, USF-I service members presented boxes of shoes to the team before they left. "I'm amazed that they can perform so well with so few resources," said Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Buchanan, director of strategic effects, USF-I, and one of the runners who ran with the team today. "I think it says volumes about the love of sport and the pride of representing one's country."

At a presentation after the run, one of the Iraqi runners shared his team's thoughts with the assembled runners. "Today was very different from a normal day in our lives," said Hamid Kadhim, a team member from Baghdad. "We thank you. We'll remember this day for the rest of our lives."

As American forces prepare for the transition to Iraq by the end of the year, events like this show the shared level of commitment of the American service members to their Iraqi comrades.

"I couldn't help but think of how far we've come in this country," said Buchanan. "The opportunities the Iraqis now have, ranging from growing security, to economic development to strengthening democracy, to an inspirational Olympic team, have been created through a great deal of sacrifice, both Iraqi and American."

"My greatest hope is that the Iraqis reach their potential," said Buchanan. "If today's run was any indication, the future is bright indeed."

The first, all-girls class enrolled in Op Cat in the Hat, sits and listens as 1st Lt. Elizabeth Bloomfield, of Iowa, mgr. of contracting officer reps with the 45th IBCT, reads a book. Bloomfield coordinated the efforts to begin these classes that have brought a community together in Bagram, by teaching young children English through reading. (AF photos by Master Sgt. James Wooding)

PARWAN PROVINCE – Op Cat in the Hat opened its doors to the children of Bagram on Oct. 13. The first 2 classes consisted of 21 boys and 19 girls who received a curriculum in English. “The students were very excited about their first day and couldn't contain their smiles,” said 1st Lt. Elizabeth Bloomfied.

Op Cat in the Hat originally started after the Bagram elders requested that Americans help teach their children English. Bloomfield was introduced to the concept by 1st Lt. Martha Garcia and Staff Sgt. Carlos Llanes of the 101st Div., during her deployment with the Iowa N.G. Bloomfield decided to extend her tour, and work with the 45th IBCT to see the concept of the school come to fruition.

Bloomfield has a degree in education and teaches kindergarten through 8th grade in her civilian job in Iowa. Her background helps her to both teach the children and mentor the volunteers and teachers. “This experience will help my wife and me to be better teachers,” said Hedayatullah, an English teacher from the village. “We appreciate the lessons; we're learning from Ms. Bloomfield."

Hedayatullah and his wife continue to gain experience through this reading program. He expressed excitement about how the teachers like the students, and students like their teachers. The program is well received by the local Bagram community, and Soldiers have been told by the Afghans that a hundred more parents want to enroll their children.

“One day, I want to see more schools for my village to make education better,” said Hedayatullah, an English teacher in the village. “The parents are very happy and thank us for teaching English classes.”

The school operates on donations to the program. One of the biggest supporters of the project is the Adopt a Soldier Platoon, which supplied 40 laptops for the students. Op Care, a local Bagram charity, provided many of the school supplies and books. Churches and individual soldiers have also donationed supplies to support the school and the effort.

“This is definitely a program that will expand,” said Master Sgt. James Wooding of Mass., anti-terrorism force protection supervisor, assigned to the 45th IBCT, and volunteer for the program. “This has allowed for tearing down barriers between the local Afghans and the military… it has helped us build trust.”

The success of the community effort and work of the volunteers continues to reach new milestones. What started as an idea is now a reality, and one that have parents waiting to enroll their children. “The full class of girls is ground breaking,” said Bloomfield. “The Bagram community has been known to be very conservative, so we're very happy to be able to share this opportunity with the girls. I hope we can continue this level of trust with the local community.”

Boys sit and listen as 1st Lt. Elizabeth Bloomfield holds up picture cards and teaches the children the name of the object in the picture.

The first class of boys enrolled in Op Cat in the Hat give a thumbs-up after their first class.

KAPISA PROVINCE – French Coalition partners in eastern Afghanistan welcomed a new brigade-sized TF, as French Brig. Gen. Pallasset succeeded French Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Maurin for command of TF La Fayette. Held at the Nijrab French military camp, French Maj. Gen. Charpentier, cmdr., French land forces, welcomed Maj. Gen. Daniel Allyn, French Ambassador Bernard Bajolet, and Afghan General Yar Mohamed, cmdr., 201st ANA Corps.

Speaking for the last time to TF La Fayette Soldiers, Maurin said that he was proud of the work accomplished and confident in the capacity of the ANSF. “The ANSF are henceforth in charge of ops. We’ll continue to support them until it would be necessary, but, they successfully win daily,” he said.

He pointed out the last op in Uzbeen valley, where Afghan troops of the 31st and 32nd Kandak led the main effort, supported by French units of TF La Fayette. He also pointed to successful unilateral missions of the 33rd ANA Kandak in Ghayn valley recently.

Closing his command chapter, Maurin paused to remember the memory of the 75 French Soldiers who gave their lives in Afghanistan since the France’s entry into Afghanistan in 2001. “On the white marble of this parade, their names are lying down. They're not anonymous names; they're Soldiers’ names, the names of heroes, names of comrades,” he said. “We'll carry them away in our heart and our conscience.”

From left to right, French Brig. Gen. Pallasset, Afghan Gen. Mohamed, U.S. Maj. Gen. Allyn, and French Brig. Gen. Maurin review French troops during the Transfer of Authority. Brig. Gen. Pallasset assumes command for the fifth rotation of TF La Fayette. (Photo courtesy of TF La Fayette PAO)

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Coalition Partnership Improves Logistics Throughout Khowst, Paktya

Story and photos by Army Sgt. Tobey White, TF Duke

Lt. Col. Dave Brown (right), cmdr of the 201st BSB, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, and a native of Del., talks with his ANA counterpart Col. Sami (center), cmdr. of the Combat Service Support, at COP Wilderness, Oct. 18. The 2 met with the 203rd Corps, to discuss logistic requirements in preparation for winter ops.

PAKTYA PROVINCE -- It’s never easy keeping soldiers equipped and ready for battle, but the growing logistical partnership between the ANA and CF make the process of outfitting soldiers easier and more efficient. For 10 months, the 201st BSB, have partnered with the Afghan CSS, to provide logistical support to Afghan troops throughout Paktya and Khowst provs.

“We’ve really moved beyond partnership to more of a mentorship,” said Lt. Col. Dave Brown. “It’s nice to see the Afghans do for themselves,” he added. Brown appointed Capt. Roger Snead, the 201st BSB’s Combined Action officer- in-charge, and a native of Ala., to work hand-in-hand with the Kandak to help them develop a self sufficient, efficient logistical op.

Snead volunteered for the job, because he saw a way to make a significant difference in the war effort. “I saw this as an opportunity to lead the way for the ANA to be self sufficient, which would in turn lead us to withdrawing,” Snead said. Sneed and his 8-man team meet regularly with the ANA, help them conduct training, and supervise their ops.

For the first time, the Afghan soldiers conducted sling load training, which consists of hooking supplies underneath a helicopter, for the purpose of airlifting them to a specific destination. At the end of the course the newly-trained soldiers successfully supported ANA missions during Op Maiwan III, a large-scale joint op conducted in May.

“There were a limited number of accessible roads during Maiwan III, so our students hooked supplies up to a CH-47 helicopter, and helped support the ANA troops in the field,” Snead said. They also taught classes in how to requisition equipment from the Ministry of Defense, driving, first aid, preventative medicine, and radio ops.

"The ANA take care of their own missions," Brown explained. They perform their own pre-combat inspections, brief their own missions, and roll out with no coalition support.

“There have been a lot of changes,” said ANA Col. Sami, 5th Kandak Cmdr. “They’ve really helped. We now have trained drivers and Soldiers who write well.”

"Though a lot of progress has been made, there remain several challenges that still need to be conquered," Brown said. “The key to ANA success is logistics and sustainment,” Brown added. “The next step is to link the national logistics support down to tactical logistics support, to ensure soldiers have what they need to conduct ops.”

ANA Soldiers with the 205th, stand in formation as Maj. Gen. Hamid, cmdr. of the 205th, and Brig. Gen. Habibi, cmdr. of the 1/205th, arrive at FOB Zangabad in Panjwa'i, one of the most contested areas in southern Kandahar prov. Oct. 19. (U.S. Army photo by 2nd. Lt. Nargis Kabiri, ISAF Regional Command-South)

FOB Masum Ghar -- Maj. Gen. Hamid, along with Maj. Gen. Jim Huggins, the RC-South cmdr., visited tactical positions, and Soldiers from both the 1st Kandak, 205th ANA Corps and the U.S. Army's 3rd Bn, 21st Inf Regt, who've been working side by side to eradicate insurgent forces, who've maintained a stronghold in the Panjwa'i district up until 2 months ago.

The cmdrs' visit to Panjwa'i comes just a few weeks after the 82nd AD took over responsibility for ISAF ops in Kandahar. Both cmdrs. stopped to recognize Afghan and U.S. soldiers who have almost completely pushed the insurgent forces out of the district, after months of heavy fighting.

Hamid and Huggins also took the opportunity to meet with the head GoA in Panjwa'i, Hajji Agha, the Panjwa'i district gov., at the Panjwa'i District Center.

Though there remains a small contingent of insurgent fighters in the Panjwa'i area, ANSF and ISAF can begin focusing on improving the quality of life for local residents, as ISAF prepares to transition security to ANSF. "We have security almost everywhere, and the conditions are set for reconstruction," said Hamid in a meeting with district leaders and military cmdrs., from both the ANSF and ISAF.

Maj. Gen. Jim Huggins, cmdr. of the 82nd AD, and the ISAF' Regional Command-South, arrives at COP Lion with Afghan Maj. Gen. Hamid, cmdr. of the 205th ANA Corps, Oct. 19. The command team was met by ankle-deep dust.

URUZGAN PROVINCE -- In Tarin Kot district, a combined Afghan and coalition patrol detained several insurgents during an op to disrupt a lethal aid and narcotics network, yesterday.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol killed 2 insurgents and detained one suspected insurgent, during an op in Nahr-e Saraj district, Oct. 23. One of the insurgents killed is a leader responsible for directing attacks against ANSF and CF. The op also seized a grenade, and a quantity of small arms.

----- CF conducted a precision airstrike against an insurgent compound in Sangin district, yesterday. The targeted compound was used by insurgents to conduct small arms fire attacks, and construct IEDs for use against Afhgan and CF. In addition, insurgents placed several bombs around the facility presenting a significant threat to coalition and Afghan forces, as well as, the civilian population. The airstrike successfully destroyed the IED-making facility without damaging any nearby structures or fields, and no civilians were harmed during the op.

----- In Musa Qal’ah district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed one insurgent and detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader negotiates with narcotic suppliers to provide finances for insurgent ops.

KABUL PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol detained 2 insurgents, including a suspected insurgent leader in Kabul district, yesterday. The leader is responsible for supplying lethal aid used in attacks against ANSF and CF.

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol seized a small weapons cache, during an op to disrupt an insurgent network in Ab Band district, Oct. 23. The op seized one 107 mm rocket, 37 75 mm rounds, and one homemade grenade.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Gardez district, yesterday. The network leader constructs and stores explosives and weapons, and leads insurgents in roadside bomb attacks throughout the Zurmat and Gardez districts. The SecFor confiscated explosives and multiple weapons including grenades, assault rifles, bayonets, ammo, and ammo pouches.

----- In Dzadran district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed multiple insurgents, during a precision airstrike. The target of the op was a group of heavily armed network fighters, who operate in Dzadran and Shwak districts.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in Khugyani district, yesterday. The facilitator provides weapons, ammo and roadside bombs to insurgents.

COB MAREZ -- After sustaining a presence in Mosul for nearly a decade, U.S. troops officially handed over their long-used military installation to Iraqi military officials, Oct. 11, at what was formerly known as COB Marez. Armed with a stack of index cards, Chris Galon, the deputy garrison cmdr., has spent the last year inventorying and transitioning each structure at Marez in preparation for the final transfer. "I came here to do base closure," said Galon. "That was my mission."

"Major structures included in the transfer were a combined coordination center, wastewater plant, 2 fire stations, the Ghuzlani Warrior Training Center, and the Diamondback airfield," said Galon. U.S. forces also left generators, non-tactical vehicles, and a/c housing units," she said.

"Since arriving in August, soldiers with 2nd Bn, 29th FAR, 4th AAB, 1st AR Div, have worked closely with Galon to detail the base, and remove any materials or documents that couldn't be turned over to the Iraqis," said Lt. Col. Thomas Bolen, the bn cmdr.

"When we first showed up to Marez in Aug., we looked around, and everyone wondered how we were going to close this place," Bolen explained. "With 5 plts. working industriously, the bn. was able to complete its mission in less than 3 months," he said. "By leaving behind a functional, "move-in ready" installation with running water, electricity, furniture and basic force protection measures, Iraqi forces won’t have to start from scratch," he said. "I think it's a positive impression that we just didn't walk off the COB," said Bolen, who is on his 3rd deployment to Iraq.

"The Iraqis worked with the base closure team, to ensure inventory items were reviewed and visually accounted for," said Galon. "With the transfer of Marez completed, Iraq’s SecFor will now have to determine the most effective way to use the facilities," said Galon.

"Iraqis are very adaptable, and they'll do a good job at figuring out how to utilize buildings and structures for their own needs," said Lt. Col. Michael Cohen, sqdn surgeon for 2nd Sqdn. In 2004, Cohen deployed with the 67th Combat Support Hospital to Diamondback, the airfield attached to Marez, alongside other deployed support elements. In Aug., he returned with the cavalry sqdn. to help support the OND mission.

Following his 2nd tour, Cohen said that he noticed several upgrades to security and protection at Marez. "It's reassuring to see all of those T-barriers, and metal on top of the dining facilities and gyms," he said. Cohen also noted a drastic difference in the level of hostility directed against the base and U.S. forces.

During his 1st deployment, "Marez and Diamondback were hotbeds for mortar attacks, ambushes and suicide bombers," Cohen said. "Now, explosions and violence seem to be a rare occurrence," he admitted.

"It's a visible sign that they're taking over their security," said Bolen. "Ever since U.S. forces entered Iraq in 2003, people have been asking what victory will look like," he said. "We've come in and made a few changes, worked with the Iraqis for a number of years now, and now we're handing their country back to them," said Bolen. "If you ask me, victory looks like the Iraqi people in charge of their country and their facilities, and really, their future.”

KHOWST PROVINCE – Afghan and CF patrol in the mountains of Musa Khel, during Op Nike IV. The op was part of a larger brigade op known as Duke Blitz, that cleared suspected insurgent support zones, uncovered weapons caches, and denied insurgents sanctuaries. Calling it one of the greatest successes to date, Afghan and CF completed a combined op, Oct. 18, along the border of Khowst and Paktya provs. (Photo by Army 2nd Lt. James Hodges)

“The ANA continues to drastically improve and take the lead during ops,” said N.C. native, 1st Lt. Steve Naser, EO and acting cmdr. for Co. B, 1st Bn. Another cache revealed that criminals also exist amongst the insurgents. Amid a stock of hand grenades, AK-47s, shotguns and a machine gun, the Afghan and US Soldiers uncovered 77 bags of hashish and 15,000 Pakistani Rupees.

Capt. Josh Wiles, from Fla., cmdr. of Co. D, 1st Bn., emphasized the fact that ANSF had rarely been to Musa Khel until recently. “The ANA put a great foot forward in an area that has been controlled by insurgents,” said Wiles. “The locals were very receptive to a permanent ANSF presence in the area,” he said. Hollis agreed. “This op showed that Afghan forces can extend the reach of their govt into the most remote, mountainous areas of Afghanistan, to provide security for the populace," Hollis said.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Senior Army Officials Visit FOB Gardez

Photos by AF Senior Airman Wesley Farnsworth, PRT Paktya

PAKTYA PROVINCE - Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Burch, Command Sgt. Maj. of the Army N.G., addresses Soldiers during an enlisted call at FOB Goode, Oct. 18. During the discussion, Burch addressed hot topics such as the new Army physical fitness standards, and answered questions from the enlisted members.

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond Chandler III, addresses Soldiers, answered questions from enlisted members, and spoke on various topics concerning active duty Army Soldiers.

From left, Lt. Col. Brad Eungard and Maj. Rodney Smith, of the 172nd Support Bn, with Afghan Command Sgt. Maj. Shah Wali, wait to meet Sgt. Maj. Chandler III. A member of the 5th CSSK and 2 interpreters were also in attendance.

Sgt. Maj. Chandler III talks with Afghan Command Sgt. Maj. Wali, and members of 172nd Support Bn. Chandler took a few moments from his visit of the FOB to speak to key leaders of the support bn and their Afghan counterparts about continuing relations between US and Afghan forces.

Afghan Command Sgt. Maj. Wali listens to his interpreter translate Sgt. Maj. Chandler's talk. Chandler spoke on topics such as uniforms, Soldier development, and the future of the Army.

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Blackanthem Military News

Afghan and U.S. Forces Train Together to Defeat IEDs

By Mass Communication Specialist First Class Farrukh Daniel

Soldiers from 3rd Plt, 73rd Engr Co, 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID "Arctic Wolves," pose for a picture with their ANA counterparts of Route Clearance Co, Oct. 15, before going over basic clearing techniques, as well as reacting to contact, and pulling security. The 3rd Plt. Soldiers train with the ANA Soldiers regularly, as part of their mission out of FOB Lindsey, in southern Afghanistan. (Army photo by Staff Sgt. Lindsey Kibler, ISAF Joint Command Public Affairs)

CAMP HERO -- Soldiers from 3rd Plt., regularly train together with their Afghan counterparts to combat and neutralize the threat of IEDs throughout Southern Afghanistan. Staff Sgt. Spencer Waters, the plt. sgt. for 3rd Plt., talked about the joint training. "We train on our tactics, techniques and procedures. They pick up what we're doing very quickly, but they do some things differently," Waters added. "They've been doing this for as long as we have, so some of the things they do are different, but they work just as well."

Afghan Army Capt. Ullawaziri, their co. cmdr., discussed the training. "We're partnering to clear the routes, and getting very effective training on medical procedures, and weapons tactics. We get new Soldiers all the time; at least every month," said Ullawaziri. "The new Soldiers don't know the basics, so we keep training."

The teams work together to ensure that Soldiers know how to deal with various scenarios that occur frequently when clearing routes. Sgt. James Freeman, from Kansas, one of 3rd Plt's team leaders, and an instructor, during the course described some of the details. "We cover how to react to finding an IED when mounted (inside a vehicle), react to finding an IED when dismounted (on foot), react to contact from small arms fire, both mounted and dismounted, and react to indirect fire," said Freeman. "They've a lot of experience doing this, and they're very good at it."

The 73rd Engr. Co, part of the 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID is based in Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 22, 2011

ISAF Joint Command

South

HELMAND PROVINCE — An ANSF and ISAF patrol killed several insurgents and detained one other insurgent, during an op to disrupt an insurgent network in Kajaki district, yesterday. The op seized 441-lbs (200 kgs) of opium, a quantity of narcotics processing equipment, and 66-lbs (30 kgs) of IED charges.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- During a combined op conducted today by Afghan and CF in Kandahar district, 2 122 mm rockets and 4 mortar rounds were discovered and seized by SecFor.

KUNAR PROVINCE -- A detainee was taken into custody for fleeing the site of a weapons cache in Khas Kunar district, today. The weapons cache consisted of 2 bolt action rifles, more than 120 rounds of assorted ammo, a pistol, binoculars, and 2 tactical vests.

Ops in RC-East are still ongoing.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

4th ID Completes Historic Iraq Mission, Furls Ivy Colors

Story by Spc. Brandon Bednarek

COB SPEICHER -- In a ceremony that marked a historic moment in the Iraq campaign, the 4th ID furled and cased their division colors before a crowd of senior U.S. and Iraqi officers, distinguished guests, and civilian news media, Oct. 20. Div. leaders Maj. Gen. David Perkins and Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel Dailey cased the Ivy Division’s colors Oct. 19, signifying the end of its 13-month mission to Iraq in support of OND.

The 4th ID was activated November 17, 1917 at Camp Greene, N.C., and has been answering America’s call for freedom for nearly 100 years. The Ivy Div. took part in World War I, stormed the beaches of Normandy in World War II, patrolled highlands and villages during the Vietnam War, and played a multi-faceted role during the war in Iraq.

Last September, the Colorado-based unit made its 4th deployment to Iraq and assumed control of the USD-North effort from the 3rd ID. "As the sole comm. gen. in northern Iraq, Perkins and the Iron Horse TF were charged with maintaining the momentum of Iraq’s SecFor, and setting conditions for the smooth transition to an embassy-led mission," said Gen. Lloyd Austin III, cmdr. of USF-Iraq. “The Iron Horse Div., under the able leadership of Maj. Gen. Dave Perkins, has certainly delivered on both of these priorities,” he said.

"With 7 provs., and 3 bordering countries, northern Iraq is a critical region that greatly impacts the security in other parts of the country," said Austin. By advising and training Iraqi security elements on intel collection, medical training, and counter-terrorism tactics, the TF continued to strengthen the enduring bilateral partnership between the 2 nations.

“Thanks to the leadership and team building efforts of Maj. Gen. Dave Perkins and USD-North, 22 combined checkpoints transitioned to bilateral control,” said Austin. “ISF and Peshmerga forces having been working together to provide security for the Iraqi people, in the absence of a direct U.S. presence,” he continued. As a result, Iraq’s SecFor have significantly grown in areas of effectiveness and capability, establishing a foundation for successful security missions, and increased stability for the country’s citizens.

The TF also continued America’s ongoing commitment to the people of Iraq, by transitioning more than 30 U.S. military installations, and reposturing ground forces in preparation for a Dec. 31 departure. “The 4th ID’s accomplishments in strengthening the ISF and improving the security situation, are indeed remarkable,” said Austin. “They're even more remarkable, when you consider that they did it all while coordinating the division’s efforts to conduct transitions and reposture forces.”

"Following the conclusion of a military presence in Iraq, U.S. embassies and consulates will work to expand and deepen their ties with Iraq. The Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq will also play a vital role, as it continues to strengthen the military-to-military relationship after the year’s end," said Austin.

Perkins, a 31-year veteran, attributed the successes of the USD-North mission to TF soldiers, who produced the biggest impact on Iraq. "Their selfless service, sacrifices and discipline were a manifestation of the American people, and exemplified what a free and democratic nation can do," he said.

"Through their actions and dedication, the 4th ID created an opportunity for continued progress in northern Iraq," explained Austin, who was honored to serve alongside the Ivy Div. “You've performed magnificently, and your efforts will have a positive impact on this area for many, many years to come.”

Staff Sgt. Robert Ross, civil affairs military ops center NCO-in-charge, Nangarhar PRT, takes notes during an interview with a local cloth vendor, as part of a market assessment of Jalalabad, Oct. 10. Ross was a member of one of 3 civil affairs teams asking questions throughout the market. Ross is from Wisc.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – For the first time during this deployment, members of the Nangarhar PRT walked the streets of Jalalabad, asking local shop owners about the economy, and their opinions on their govt. Although previous PRTs in Nangarhar have done market assessments, the current team has focused largely on provincial level governance and development. "However, after more than 3 months here, it was time to see how things were shaping up on the ground," said Capt. James Hanson, PRT civil affairs team lead.

“We gained a snap shot of the local economy, and what's really going on in the market place on a daily basis,” said Hanson, a native of Mich. “We also gained an understanding of the local businesses, and how the govt is helping or not helping them.”

"The PRT relies primarily on key leaders for info about what is happening in the community, but getting a true sense of what's important or impacts the local citizens of Jalalabad requires talking with everyday people," said Sgt. Kristin Goehler. “We gained real atmospherics by interacting directly with locals, rather than relying on info second-hand,” said Goehler, a Wisc. native. “We also portrayed a positive image of CF by direct interactions with the locals.”

The market patrol was comprised of several small teams of PRT civil affairs Soldiers, broken into 3 smaller, 2-person teams along with a PRT SecFor to ensure the safety of the civil affairs teams as they performed their mission.“This was a group effort with civil affairs, SecFor, and HQ elements to pull this all off,” said Hanson, who is deployed from the 432nd CAB, an Army N.G. unit out of Green Bay. “There are many moving parts to this type of mission, and everyone has to do their part to conduct this type of mission successfully.”

"As the 2-hour mission progressed, the market the team walked through became increasingly more congested with shoppers," added Hanson. Likewise, the team attracted a lot of attention from children and others interested in what the service members were doing.

“We had a good plan and were able to move the way we wanted to, despite how crowded the market was,” said Goehler, who is from the same unit as Hanson. “It's a testament of how good the different elements worked together. With more people, the team got a better feel for the economy," said Hanson. Nearly every shop, which included clothing, jewelry and food, had customers.

“A large number of people in the market indicate the area is secure,” said Hanson. “People have faith in the economy, and aren't hording money for a rainy day. This is exactly what we were hoping to find while conducting our assessment.”

"There were also a large number of local women shopping," said Goehler, whose small team was designed primarily to engage women. Unlike many other areas, the women were without male escorts, which indicates an added sense of security. “The interaction with the women was positive,” said Goehler. “They felt very safe shopping in that market. It shows when women have the freedom of movement to shop without an escort. One woman we talked to has had her own shop for 10 years, and supports her family with her sales.”

"Although this marked the first market walk for the PRT, plans are already in the works to do another one," said Hanson. The goal is assess various markets throughout the prov., helping not only get a pulse for the important issues and the economy but also to assist in market research for construction supplies, which is another area of PRT efforts.

“I didn't experience any negative feedback, and all the interaction was positive,” said Goehler. “The people were receptive to answering our questions, and everyone was accommodating.”

AF Staff Sgt. Justin Barnhill, from Arizona, tactical communications specialist, Nangarhar PRT, provides additional security as members walk down a densely populated street in Jalalabad. The team was there to perform a market assessment and learn popular opinions of their local leaders.

Army Capt. James Hanson, civil affairs team leader, takes notes during a brief interview with a Jalalabad shopkeeper, who specializes in dried fruits. Questions focused on the origin of the vendor’s goods, which are primarily grown in Afghanistan, according to the shopkeeper.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Oklahoma Ties Bring Motivation to Thunderbird Soldiers

Story and photos by Maj. Lindy White

Army Maj. Gen. Myles Deering, adjutant general of Okla., presents his 2-star coin while shaking hands with Pfc. Rachelle Dutton of Kan., and member of the HC, 45th BSTB, 45th IBCT, during his visit, Oct. 14. Deering presented her the coin for coming to the aid of victims in a traffic accident in Laghman prov. Dutton has been a member of the Oklahoma Army N.G. for less than 2 years. She's a student at Oklahoma University.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – Snow-capped mountains and dry desert lands were sites to see for Maj. Gen. Myles Deering, and Command Sgt. Maj. Steve Jensen, state command sgt. maj. of Okla., during their visit with Soldiers. However, it was the opportunity to visit with Oklahoma Soldiers that highlighted his visit today.

“The visit was tremendous,” said, Deering. “It was great seeing all the leaders and Soldiers out in the FOBs and the COPs...I had a tremendous time, thanking Soldiers, and assured them that Oklahoma was proud of them and supports them."

Deering and Jensen were able to visit with bn. level and co. level cmdrs. with the 45th IBCT AO, and at the end of their tour, they visited members of the 1st Bn, 279th Inf., who are assigned to a different brigade HQ. “I was surprised he came out to meet with us,” said Spc. Jason Barrow. Barrow grew up in Sand Springs, and initially started out in the Army Reserves, moved to Fla. and then moved back to Okla., to join the Army N.G. Barrow was one of 9 Soldiers with 279th Inf., awarded the Combat Infantry Badge by Deering.

“I thought it was great he could be here for this,” Barrow said. “This is cool that he wanted to be a part, and nice that he and sgt. maj. cares enough about us to come and visit.” Several Soldiers also received the 2-star coin. Giving leadership coins is part of a tradition of leaders to award Soldiers who perform their jobs well, and deserve the personal hand shake where the coin is exchanged.

Maj. Gen. Myles Deering, adjutant general of Okla., awards the Combat Infantry Badge to Spc. Jason Barrow. This is Barrow’s first deployment.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Army’s Senior NCO Visits TF Duke

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Ben Navratil

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond Chandler III visited the Soldiers of the 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, at several bases in Khowst and Paktya Provs., Oct. 18.

KHOWST PROVINCE – During breakfast in the FOB Salerno dining facility, Chandler spoke with Soldiers stationed here about upcoming, Army-wide troop drawdown, and changes in policy. He emphasized that the privilege to serve the Nation will always be offered to those willing to continuously better themselves, and adapt to the needs of the force.

“You have to be willing to do what the Army needs you to do,” he said, adding that selfless service means being committed to the Army, and taking assignments that may not be one’s first choice. Selfless service is one of the 7 Army Values, which Chandler calls the core of what makes a Soldier a Soldier.

He went on to compare the professional Soldier to professionals in the civilian sector. He said Soldiers, like lawyers, clergymen and doctors, all go through rigorous training, and constantly reassess their skills to stay ahead.

“Having the opportunity to break bread with the Sgt. Maj. of the Army was an honor for both my Soldiers and me,” said 1st Sgt. John Pair from N.Y., the First Sgt. of HQ, HC, 3rd BCT. “His taking the time out to visit the troops, and talk about the way forward for our expeditionary Army was very beneficial. He's the right guy to have in our corner.”

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond Chandler III listens to a question posed by a Soldier assigned to the 3rd BCT, at FOB Salerno, Oct. 18. Chandler held a question-and-answer session in the FOB Salerno dining facility, to hear the issues facing deployed Soldiers, and to address some of their questions regarding major changes going on throughout the Army.

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RC-East

Command Sgt. Maj. of the Army N.G. Visits Bagram Airfield

Photos by Army Spc. Ken Scar

Command Sgt. Maj. of the Army N.G. Richard Burch shares a laugh with Pfc. Nicholas Degiglio, of the 131st Trans. Co., after presenting him with a coin, Oct. 18. Burch was on a tour of RC-East with Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond Chandler III.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor conducted an op in search of a Taliban leader in Musa Qal’ah district. The leader coordinates shipments of explosives and weapons in support of insurgent ops.Multiple suspected insurgents were detained during the op.

KHOST -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network facilitator, during a search op in Sabari district. The facilitator planned and coordinated attacks against Afghan forces, as well as distributing weapons and roadside bombs throughout Sabari district. Two additional suspected insurgents were detained.

----- Also in Sabari district, during a security op a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network facilitator. The facilitator distributed weapons, supplies and equipment to other senior insurgent leaders, as well as planned attacks against Afghan forces in the region. One additional suspected insurgent was detained.

COB ADDER -- It started in the early morning hours. Soldiers cloaked in the pitch black performed last-minute mental evaluations to prepare themselves for their undertaking; the fall air is doing its part to provide a cool atmosphere, a change from the usual suffocating heat.

Despite being in the midst of OND’s final months, these few men and women were preparing to compete against one another in a Best Warrior and NCO competition. The 4th Sust Bde, hailing from Fort Hood, Texas, hosted the competition. 310th ESC subordinate units from across the country made their way to compete in the competition, and to lend a hand.

The 21 Soldiers, divided between NCOs and junior-enlisted Soldiers, would first exercise their grit by combining search and detaining skills with modern Army combatives. Immediately after that, a physical fitness test; minutes later, a 5-mile foot march.

The demands didn't stop there. It continued into situational training exercise lanes, featuring stations on land navigation, radio communications, first aid, and even essay writing. Soldiers would then shuffle over to qualify on their assigned weapon. Not wasting any time, they were soon, one-by-one standing before a board to test their Army knowledge.

The end seemed to be a day that would never come. “This event was actually more mentally demanding than it was physically for me,” said Sgt. Jose Villanueva, an ammo NCO for the 4th Sust. Bde. and a Texas, native who would place 3rd in the competition.

After hours spent physically and mentally exerting themselves, the soldiers, accompanied by their sponsors and peers, gathered for a final ceremony. Command Sgt. Maj. Debbie Schroder, the 310th ESC senior-enlisted leader, gave out coins to those who helped support the day’s event, and then to those who competed.

Then the quiet calm before the storm took over. Sgt. Kellyn Furgiuele took the crown for the NCOs; Pfc. Michael Doumas emerged the victor from the junior-enlisted ranks.

For Command Sgt. Maj. Erik Frey, the senior-enlisted leader for the 4th Sust. Bde., everyone was a winner. “This competition covered many areas that soldiers should be proficient in: from the APFT, warrior tasks and battle drills, to their writing ability,” Frey said. “All 21 competitors were well prepared, and displayed a high level of warrior ethos and motivation.”

“All soldiers must always hone their craft of being a Soldier, and these competitions are designed to showcase all the hard work and preparation a Soldier does on a daily basis,” Frey said.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -- AF Senior Airman Lauren Everett, a medic attached to Laghman PRT, climbs a tree to talk to a child, while on a patrol in Mehtar Lam district, Oct. 14. The PRT traveled to the village of Deh E Ziarat to meet with the village elder and the people to talk about their community.

AF Lt. Col. Jayson Allen, cmdr. of Laghman PRT, hands out school supplies to a young girl while on a patrol.

AF Lt. Col. Jayson Allen takes time to speak with a local man in a village. Allen explains through an interpreter to take one pill each day to help him with his leg.

A young boy leans over a wall trying to get the attention of AF Lt. Col. Jayson Allen, as he hands out school supplies to a group of children.

Army Sgt. Maj. Roderick Hodo, Laghman PRT sgt. maj., plays a game of cricket with some Afghan boys.

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DVIDS

‘Super Shura’ to Plan Next Step Forward for Khowst, Paktya

Army photos by Maj. Travis Dettmer

The participants in a "Super Shura," included govt and military leaders of Khowst and Paktya provs., pose for a photo outside the HQ of 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, on FOB Salerno, Oct. 20. The shura was an opportunity for the partnered forces to identify the progress they've made in the last year, and identify the steps forward.

Govt and military officials, along with leaders from TF Duke, listen to a briefing. The meeting was a chance for leaders to discuss recent security achievements, share info, and plan for the winter fighting season.

Leaders of the govt and ANSF eat lunch with members of TF Duke. The leaders were gathered to attend a "Super Shura" uniting many of the partnered forces in Khowst and Paktya provs., to identify successes against the insurgency, and to identify the next steps forward in the fight.

Brig. Gen. Gary Volesky, (second from right), and members of his personal security detail run to their UH-60 Black Hawk. Volesky and his team were conducting a surprise battlefield circulation to several ISAF positions south of Kabul, in the Deh Yak and Mata Khan districts, to see how Op Shamshir was progressing.

A member of the ANA and a member of the local AUP, Deh Yak District, provide over watch during Op Shamshir with U.S. forces.

Army Capt. Scott Hall, from Fla., launches himself off of a UH-60 Black Hawk onto the valley floor of the Deh Yak District. Hall is the personal asst. to Brig. Gen. Gary Volesky.

Brig. Gen. Volesky shares a laugh with Spc. Gabriel Ramirez of Calif.

Maj. Abdul Gafar, who is with the ANA, shakes hands with Brig. Gen. Volesky, while a member of the AUP looks on. The ANA, AUP and U.S. soldiers were in the middle of Op Shamshir in the Mata Khan District, south of Kabul.

Brig. Gen. Gary Volesky (center) discusses strategy for Op Shamshir with U.S. soldiers, ANA, and members of the local AUP in the Mata Khan district.

A member of the AUP poses with his pet monkey, while on guard duty.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Blackhawks Storm Into, Out of Waza Khwa

Photos by Staff Sgt. Luke Graziani

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Army Spc. Jordan Tulkki, a cannon crewmember, an Ariz., native assigned to Btry C, 1st Bn, 77th FA, 172nd Inf Bde, TF Blackhawk, slides a hook into place on top of a shipping container, Oct. 8 at COP Waza Khwa. The container was getting ready to be shipped to another location, in support of Op Blackstorm. The op is removing all U.S. military-owned property from COP Waza Khwa, prior to the COP being handed over to Afghan forces' control.

A group of Afghan locals work diligently to recycle military shipping barrels. Afghan forces are recycling more than 6,000 barrels that were stored on the COP, before taking responsibility. The money earned from recycling the barrels is slated to be used to help the local community and district center.

The remainder of the military shipping barrels scheduled to be recycled. The op was designed to transfer the COP of U.S. military owned property, and hand the COP over to Afghan forces. Prior to taking responsibility, however, the Afghans requested that the barrels be recycled.

A vehicle, part of a route clearance package (RCP), enters COP Waza Khwa, during Op Blackstorm. An RCP cleared the route ahead of a long convoy of vehicles, bringing flatbed trucks and other large equipment-moving vehicles.

First Sgt. Anthony Johnson, 1st Sgt. of Btry C, uses a flashlight to check the status of night-time fueling procedures, after a convoy of equipment-moving vehicles arrived, Oct. 10. The vehicles were quickly fueled up after driving many hours in support of Op Blackstorm.

Army Sgt. Nathanael Bordash, a native of Mich., assigned to Co A, 172nd Support Bn, 172nd Inf Bde, TF Blackhawk, performs defueling procedures, Oct. 10. Bordash, assisted by Waza Khwa personnel, supported the op by maintaining a fully operational fuel point. This was the first and last time Waza Khwa personnel performed defueling procedures from a tanker truck.

Army Staff Sgt. Cory Simpson, a native of Wisc., assigned to the Support Ops Office, 172nd Support Bn, wrestles with one of the lift hooks of a crane, Oct. 10. Simpson attached the hooks to the tops of shipping containers, during Op Blackstorm.

Army Sgt. Francisco Arce, a native of Puerto Rico and Staff Sgt. Bryan Godette, a native of N.C., both assigned to Co A, discuss the plan for loading shipping containers onto trucks.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 20, 2011

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- In Kandahar district, a combined Afghan and coalition patrol discovered a damaged coalition vehicle and storage container, in a civilian compound, Oct. 19. Upon further investigation, the SecFor discovered a weapons cache as well. The cache consisted of 3 AK-47s, a shotgun, a hand grenade, 15 AK-47 mags, and 450 7.62 mm rounds.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor patrol detained an insurgent leader, during an op in Lashkar Gah district, in an ongoing op throughout the week. The leader commands several insurgents, and is responsible for planning attacks against Afghan and CF.

ZABUL PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol discovered a large store of explosives, today. The patrol was conducting a clearing op in the village of Arel, when they came upon the cache near an IED. The cache contained 2 containers with 88-lbs (40 kgs) of explosive material, 26-lbs (12 kgs) of ammonium nitrate, and bomb making materials.

East

LOGAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained an insurgent leader in Khoshi district, in an op that was ongoing throughout the week. The leader is a known insurgent cmdr., and facilitator responsible for attacks against Afghan and CF.

----- In Charkh district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Taliban leader. The leader conducts attacks against CF in the region.

GHAZNI PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during a security op in search of a Taliban leader in Wali Muhammad Shahid Khugyani district. The leader coordinates with fellow insurgent leaders to plan attacks in the area.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, and discovered an explosives cache, during an op in Ghazni district, yesterday. The cache consisted of 880-lbs (400 kgs) of homemade explosives.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Multitasking Sustainers Finalize Logistics Mission at Habur Gate

Story by Sgt. Allyson Parla

HABUR GATE — With tears streaming down their cheeks, a group of Kurdish men waved goodbye to their friends, a small contingency of U.S. soldiers, who have finally completed their mission at Habur Gate.

Fourteen soldiers from the 77th Sust Bde, 310th ESC finalized a logistics mission, Sept. 30, at Habur Gate, turning over the Ibrahim Khalil Border Complex to the GoI. The bulk of the Soldiers’ success rested on their ability to multitask, both teaching and performing their professional and personal skills to one another, and to the local Kurdish workers.

Supplies, equipment and food are transported through Turkey, and into Iraq daily to sustain both civilian and military personnel in Iraq. Local nationals help facilitate this daily, million-dollar op. LTF-77th soldiers ensured that Kurdish workers were properly trained and able to perform their tasks, sometimes spending as much as 10 hours a day to ensure their efficiency.

2nd Lt. Gerard Sullivan, the officer-in-charge of Logistical TF 77th, STB, 77th Sust. Bde., said that many of the local nationals had only gone as far as the 3rd grade, and that many were illiterate. “Those were the guys we worked with every day,” said Sullivan, who previously worked as a teacher in Honduras for 2 years.

Sullivan said that perhaps the most memorable training was the unforeseen training the soldiers taught their Kurdish counterparts. “They've a heart as big as gold, but a lot of them are just not experienced,” said Sullivan about the more than 120 Kurdish contractors working with them at the complex.

"Hiring family members, regardless of their training or experience, is a common practice for people in this area," Sullivan said. “It’s like, ‘this guy is my brother, so he’s the new a/c guy,’ or ‘this guy is my cousin, and he’s the new reception desk guy,’” he said.

“They were working for us, but didn’t know how to do their job,” said Master Sgt. Ricky Pittman, the NCO-in-charge of LTF-77th, and a native of La. Despite the lack of training the Kurdish workers had, they made the job easier and were eager to learn, said Spc. Ray Hughes, the NCO-in-charge of communications for LTF-77th, and a native of N.J.

Although nearly all of the 77th Sust. Bde. soldiers here were Combat Lifesaver certified, the Kurdish had little medical training. “I ran a small, 3-day class with the Kurdish army, teaching them basic medical skills to stop bleeding and open up airways,” said Spc. Jonathan Frick, the NCO-in-charge of the aid station at Habur Gate for the 77th Sust. Bde., and a native of N.J.

Frick added, "there was even a Kurdish army medic in attendance. He said that he was motivated to train the locals, because he knew that these medical skills might one day save a life.

"With the U.S. mission coming to a close, the Ibrahim Khalil Border Complex will be used by the Kurdish customs administration, and will also be a symbol of the cooperation between the U.S. Army and Kurdish people," said Khorshid Yousif, a liaison officer between the complex and the U.S. forces.

PAKTYA PROVINCE – Capt. Tim Black (left), an intel officer from Ohio, helps provide security, Oct. 17 while Afghan and Coaltion SecFor leaders speak with village elders from the Sahak Triangle area of Zormat district. Ongoing joint Afghan and CF ops conducted across Khowst and Paktya provs. this past week have significantly impacted insurgent capability, as the winter period begins to set in. (Photos by Army Sgt. Joseph Watson)

FOB SALERNO – Since Oct. 13, at least 18 insurgent fighters have been killed, with no reported Afghan or Coalition casualties. Coalition officials also report the capture of 65 enemy fighters, 5 of these believed to be insurgent leaders. During this time, combined forces have uncovered 9 weapons caches; one cache alone containing 22 RPGs and 9 IEDs.

Insurgent attempts to fight back have failed. The most notable failure was Sunday’s attempted car bombing and suicide bomber attack near the Municipality in Gardez City, Paktya prov. Afghan police, who were warned of Sunday’s failed attack through recent intel reports, were in a state of high alert. An observant Afghan policeman noticed the suspicious vehicle, and signaled for the driver to stop. The driver then detonated his car bomb, which was followed by the attempted suicide attacks. Afghan police killed the 3 suicide bombers before they could detonate their vests, potentially killing dozens of innocent civilians. No injuries were reported from the car blast.

The cmdr. for all CF in Paktya and Khowst, Col. Chris Toner of the 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, commended the police for their efforts to protect the people of Gardez. “These brave police heroes caused the insurgents to fail in yet another attempt to kill civilians and destabilize the area,” said the Kansas native.

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Blackanthem Military News

Insurgent Failures Mark Start of Winter Operations

By RC-East PAO

ANSF and members of the Coalition Provincial Development Stabilization Team (CPDST) assess the aftermath of a suicide attack, Oct.15, at FOB Lion in Panjshir Prov. (Photo provided by U.S. Army)

BAGRAM AIRFIELD -- Tactical mistakes by insurgents in eastern Afghanistan over the past weeks resulted in at least 3 failed attacks against Afghan and Coalition targets. "This is a direct demonstration of the increasing effectiveness of the ASF in eastern Afghanistan," said Brig. Gen. Gary Volesky, deputy comm. gen., RC-East. "Frequently, the insurgents are coming up against a more professional and committed Afghan force."

AUP prevented a complex attack against the municipal building in Gardez, Paktiya prov., Oct.16. Insurgents again attempted to attack using a vehicle bomb and suicide vests. AUP officers shot and killed all 3 insurgents wearing suicide vests. The vehicle detonated, martyring one AUP officer and a municipal worker.

On Oct. 15, ASF prevented a complex attack against a combined base in the Rukhah district, Panjshir prov. Five insurgents were killed after they attacked the base with a vehicle bomb and suicide vests. ASF shot and killed 4 of the attackers, the fifth detonated his vehicle bomb with little effect against the base. Two Afghan civilians were martyred in the vehicle blast, and 2 Afghan security guards were injured.

Afghan and CF killed 17 insurgents after a complex attack near the Nari District, Kunar prov., Oct.14. Insurgents attacked with small arms and mortars. There were no reports of Afghan Army, Coalition or civilian casualties.

Coalition aircraft and artillery fire, Oct. 8, killed at least 25 insurgents in the largest coordinated attack against Coalition bases in Paktika prov., since 2009. Insurgents unsuccessfully used indirect fire from multiple locations in Gormal, Sarobi and Barmal districts against Afghan and Coalition bases. One Coalition member was slightly wounded during the attacks.

"Insurgent failures demonstrate an increase in the capability and capacity of our Afghan partners," Volesky said.

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD -- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) personnel teamed up with an ANP rep and an Army mentor to the ANP, to inspect a district police HQ nearing completion in Daykundi prov., Sept. 26. Lt. Col. Hazer Khan, the facilities officer for the ANP region HQ in Kandahar City, and Maj. David Steele, an Army mentor to the ANP, travelled to the site in Ashterlee with 3 reps of Afghanistan Engr. District South: Lt. Col. John Carpenter, the J-2; John Clark, the resident engr. for Tarin Kowt and Qalat; and Hans Miller, a construction rep, who has since moved from the Tarin Kowt Resident Office to the Qalat Resident Office. "It's important for me to be able to get out to sites like this," Khan said through an interpreter. "It allows me to see the issues on the ground, so I can help correct them."

"These visits serve to assure the district police leadership that the enduring Afghan Govt will continue to support the district chief of police, after the temporary ISAF influence is gone," Steele added. "Also, the psychological impact of solid rock mountains amplifying the sound and feeling of Blackhawks flying in, sends an unmistakable message of govt authority to all.

"A trip to Ashterlee is a 2-day drive from the regional police HQ near Kandahar, during the summer months (fighting season), while completely impassable roads in the winter make face-to-face engagements impossible," Steele continued. "When we meet with district police officers they're extremely happy to meet regional staff whom they otherwise know only by reputation. They quickly burst out with stories about their community. The regional officers steer the conversation toward security concerns. My interpreter always needs a lozenge after the 2-hour rapid-fire exchange."

While Khan and Steele were meeting with local police officials, Miller and Clark were busy inspecting all aspects of the ongoing project, including a generator, fuel tank and submersible water pumps necessary to complete the work. Miller conducted vigorous discussions with the contractor, underlining contract requirements the contractor had to meet. "It's important for us to get out to these remote sites, because the Afghan contractors perform better when USACE eyes are put on the project," said Clark.

"Ashterlee will see exponential industrial growth in the next few years, and the corresponding, mostly non-local work force will demand tangible security," said Steele. "The walled summit complex, the new district police HQ, is an icon of security and GoA sovereignty."

"When people in the area see facilities like this HQ, they see that security is improving," Khan said. "I've seen great improvements over the last 3 to 4 years. The coalition has helped us a lot."

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Watershed Revival to Come to Sayed Abad

Story and photo by Army Sgt. Andrea Merritt

A watershed in Sra Kala village was selected to undergo rehabilitation this winter, Oct. 15. Due to deforestation, overgrazing and other factors, 98% of the trees in Afghanistan have disappeared in the last 30 years. Since there aren’t many trees or other types of vegetation, soil is exposed to the elements causing erosion. As a result of the erosion, farmers are unable to cultivate the land and grow crops.

WARDAK PROVINCE – In the 1970s, Afghanistan, then known as the “Orchard of Central Asia,” was an agricultural goldmine that thrived as a major exporter of dried fruits and nuts. After decades of war, drought and deforestation, much of the land became unsuitable for farming. The hills in many areas, once lined with rich green vegetation, are now a dry, barren shadow of the country’s former glory.

Through the years, govt, non-govt, and military orgs., have assisted Afghans in restoring the agricultural climate through watershed projects in various regions. A watershed is a landform with highpoints and ridgelines that descend into lower elevations. After rainfalls and snowmelts, the water flows down into soil, groundwater, creeks and streams, to larger rivers, eventually channeling into the sea.

Members of the Global Partnership for Afghanistan (GPFA), the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and Soldiers from the 2nd Bn, 5th Inf Regt, 3rd Bde, 1st AR Div, TF Bobcat, visited Sra Kala village in the Sayed Abad district, Oct. 11, to assess a watershed selected to undergo restoration this winter. “There's a need for water, and watershed programs can increase the water supply and improve the ecosystem,” said 1st Lt. Christopher Davis, mortar plt. leader and bn. civil affairs officer, 2nd Bn.

Since 2010, the GPFA has launched 17 small water projects in 19 villages in Wardak Prov. In partnership with the GoA, USAID and other agencies, the GPFA water projects have affected more than 15,000 families in the prov. “In 2008, we travelled to different provs. like Wardak and Logar,” said Thomas Bevier, field program officer with USAID. “Throughout many studies we heard the same theme from people who worked on farms, and it all came back to water.”

“The civil affairs cell conducted assessments and found there was an over-demand on natural resources,” Bevier said. “There's a critical water shortage, and we looked to different solutions, one being to re-establish watersheds. In a country where 85% of the population relies on agriculture as their main source of income, restoring the watersheds could help rebuild the economy," Bevier said.

“The great thing about this program is that it’s not temporary. It can create trees, rivers and grasslands,” said Davis, a Calif. native. “The area could start seeing results in just 5 years. In 10 years, there'll be large trees, more water and more arable land.”

To generate local interest in the watershed program, GPFA members engage local and provincial leaders, as well as farmers, and teach them different ways to increase farm productivity. Jawid Ahmad, a GPFA member program support services mgr., is glad to be a part of the project and help his community. “In the past there were lots of forests in Sayed Abad. The hills were covered in trees,” said Ahmad. “Nothing is impossible if we try to get back to that level. We just need to support and to teach people how to do that.”

A key component to the program is community involvement. The locals will be actively engaged in the restoration process, by working the land and planting grass and trees. “The watershed project will employ the locals,” Davis said. “They'll work the land, and have property rights to the land as long as they keep working it.”

“It will provide them dignity, a sense of accomplishment and pride in themselves,” Bevier said. “The quality of life will get better. It will lead to a capacity to rebuild the economy, and increased health, but the key thing is hope. It will give them hope.”

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 19, 2011

North

BAGHLAN PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader, during an op in the Baghlan-e Jadid district, yesterday. The leader distributed funding and supplies for insurgent activity, and conducted attacks against Afghan forces in the region.

South

HELMAND PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed multiple armed insurgents and detained numerous suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in Kajaki district, yesterday. The facilitator leads subordinate fighters in attacks against helicopters, RPGs, heavy machine gun, and roadside bomb attacks. He also directs fighters to attack CF during search ops. The SecFor was engaged multiple times with small arms, sniper and mortar fire. Responding to the direct threat, the SecFor returned fire, killing the insurgents. Multiple AK-47 assault rifles were seized following the engagement.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- In Sherzad district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed an insurgent and detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader operates in both the Sherzad and Khugyani districts, and is involved in ambush attacks against Afghan forces.

East

PAKTIKA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor carried out a precision airstrike in Gomal district, killing 2 insurgents, yesterday. The target of the op was an insurgent network leader who plans and conducts attacks against CF in the Sarobi and Orgun districts.

KHOST PROVINCE -- In Manduzai district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of an insurgent network leader. The leader plans and participates in attacks against Afghan forces.

A team of 13 Marine Corps trainers assigned to the Iraqi Marine Training Team 03 leave Iraq and convoy to Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, as the last Marine team of Op New Dawn, Oct. 14. The Marines, from Camp Pendleton, Calif., assigned to I Marine Expeditionary Force, spent the last several months training Iraqi Marines in various skills such as patrolling, night ops, weapons training, and search and seizure techniques. IqMTT-03 will be a part of history.

UMM QASR – Marine Col. Erick Thomas, officer-in-charge, Marine Central Command Coordination Element-Kuwait and Wash. resident, spoke to IqMTT-03 about this historic moment during their last formation. “Your mission is now complete,” said Thomas. “You're the last Marine team to have officially helped train the Iraqi Marine Corps.”

“Over the past 5-1/2 months, you’ve shown the Iraqi Marines what honor, courage and commitment is,” said Thomas. “The Iraqi Marines have a huge responsibility ahead them. Because of your team, and others before, the Iraqi Marines are ready and trained.”

After the formation, the team took a moment to gather for some final photos together, to mark a piece of history, and to reflect on what they've accomplished. “Our mission was to train and advise the Iraqi Marines, in order to enhance their capabilities to accomplish their mission,” said Maj. Monte Powell, team chief of IqMTT-03 and Ill. native. “We've trained over 1,200 Iraqi Marines, and conducted over 500 combat patrols within the area of Umm Qasr.”

"The team also introduced the Iraqi Marines to vessel procedures, such as basic visit, board, and search and seizure techniques with the Iraqi Navy," said Powell. "Other accomplishments include conducting AK-47 weapons qualification, night vision training, vehicle control point, and entry control point techniques.

In the role of advisors, the team worked closely with both the Iraqi Navy and Marine counterparts. As the last OND Marine team, Powell and his fellow Marines are proud of this moment. “The Iraqi Marines are a force that is self-reliant and able to accomplish their mission within the Iraqi armed forces,” said Powell. “The Marine Corps warrior ethos and spirit is cemented with the Iraqi Marines.”

A team of 13 Marine Corps trainers left here, Oct. 14.

Maj. Monte Powell, team chief of Iraqi Marine Training Team 03, and Okla. native, takes charge of his 13 Marine trainers, during a final formation.

LCpl. Joseph Stearrett (right), a Tenn. native, and a motorman team leader with India Co, raised his right hand, to take the oath of enlistment for another 4-year commitment in the Corps. Stearrett, who deployed to Afghanistan with 3rd Bn, 6th Marine Regt, in 2010, returned to his former PB, known as the yellow schoolhouse, for his re-enlistment ceremony.

MARJAH DISTRICT, Helmand province -- Sleeping in muddy fighting positions, going months without a real shower, and receiving ammo resupplies more often than shipments of food, isn’t the ideal lifestyle choice for most. One Tenn. native understands the sacrifices expected of a Marine Corps infantryman, and said that he believes those sacrifices are necessary to see change in Afghanistan.

LCpl. Joseph Stearrett said that he knew since he was a child, he was going to serve his country’s military as an infantrymen. He never imagined, however, that his service would lead him back to the city of Marjah, an insurgent stronghold his bn. was ordered to clear in 2010. In early 2010, 3/6 made its way into Marjah to rip the city from the insurgents’ grasp. "The unit’s Marines and sailors pushed into the city and were shot at from day one," as Stearrett recalled.

“For the next 2 weeks, it was like firefights from sunup to sundown,” said Stearrett. His platoon was spilt into 2 locations, and his squad lived most of the deployment at a local center for elementary education, a location the Marines referred to as the yellow schoolhouse for its color.

“Depending on where you were in the city, there were good times and bad times,” said 1st Lt. Jackson Smith, an Md. native, and the EO for India Co. “For the yellow schoolhouse, those guys who were there full-time -- there were not a lot of good times. It was bad, or it was really bad for the most part.”

Smith was Stearrett’s plt. cmdr. during their deployment in 2010. He said that throughout the deployment, no matter how bad any situation got, he never heard Stearrett complain about anything. “Through it all, you never heard Stearrett open his mouth and say, ‘I don’t want to do this, or I don’t want to do that.’ He was just going to get the job done.”

“I got told we were coming back here, and I was expecting all hell to break loose; then we get here and there was nothing,” said Stearrett. “Last year we got ammo resupplies more than we got mail drops or resupplies on water and chow. It was a big shock from, literally, 9 to 10 months ago.”

Stearrett, who has been back in Marjah for 4 months, said he has not fired a single round since his return. It’s a big change from waking up to go on patrol, and knowing there was a 90% chance they were going to get shot at. He said that he never expected for Marjah to turn around as quickly as it did, but the city’s speedy about-face was not the only thing that surprised him. He was baffled to hear that his former home -- the yellow schoolhouse -- had been renovated and re-opened as a school, after he returned to the U.S.

Stearrett decided he wanted to continue his Marine Corps career, and was approved for re-enlistment recently. He asked to do his re-enlistment ceremony at the yellow schoolhouse. “This year when I found out he was re-enlisting, and that he wanted to do it at the yellow schoolhouse, was about the most humbling experience I’ve had,” said Smith. “The guy could have pretty much gone anywhere, and choose to have anyone with him. Just to be able to witness that, and to see him back in that place, was a pretty awesome experience.”

As Smith witnessed his Marine swear to serve and protect the nation for another 4 years, Stearrett bore witness to his own efforts during his 2010 deployment. Stearrett explained that many people don’t think they make a difference, because they never see the effect of their efforts. Coming back to Marjah and being able to see the impact he and his fellow Marines had on the area, brought him a sense of accomplishment.

“Seeing everything we fought for, definitely brings us a lot of pride,” said Stearrett. “Three hundred and ten kids attended that school this year. You definitely get a sense of pride knowing you helped set the school up for success – 310 kids got an education. Everything you did was worth it.”

LCpl. Joseph Stearrett was in some of the thickest fighting to recapture the city from insurgents.

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DVIDS

1/6 Comm Marines Overcome Adverse Terrain, Conditions

Story and photos by Cpl. James Clark

LCpl. William Murray, from N.J., helps set up communications equipment at PB Alcatraz, Sept. 15. Murray enlisted shortly after high school as a radio operator, and serves with HSC, 1st Bn, 6th Marine Regt. Working throughout the day and well into the night; some sleep only a few hours in preparation for the next day. They keep the pace for several days, until fields of antennae dot the landscape, where the Marines have made a home.

SANGIN DISTRICT, Helmand province -- They walk through sand, fine and powdered like hot chocolate mix, and look up at mountains belonging on post cards, as they work under the heavy afternoon sun. For the junior Marines in the section, this is their true test. “I came here and found out how little I knew,” said LCpl. William Murray, a radio operator. “In the first few months I’ve learned so much more through hands-on experience. The senior guys passed down a lot of knowledge we needed, and taught us how to avoid making certain mistakes they'd made in the past.”

By working in adverse conditions, junior Marines, like Murray, were challenged to learn quickly, and become self sufficient. “Things are now going pretty smooth, and I’ve gotten to the point where I can start teaching myself,” said Murray. It's often through firsthand experience where true learning takes place, although they've trained extensively and prepared for these scenarios.

“At military occupational specialty school they learn to walk, then during predeployment training they begin to jog, but it’s not until they deploy that they begin to run,” said Sgt. Jaime Shanks, the plt. sgt. for Comm. Plt.. “They’re the future; we teach them everything we know, because when we leave here, they’re it.”

"Marines in the communications field are responsible not only for establishing radio contact with CF, but satellite communications, internet capable troop tracking assets, and maintaining all electronic equipment within the bn," explained Staff Sgt. Carl Davidson, the comm. maintenance chief. "Even with the heavy pressure placed on his junior Marines’ shoulders," Davidson added, “the newer Marines are definitely learning; they’re picking up quick and on the fly.”

In addition, many of the junior Marines will be attached to infantry companies for combat ops, and will be responsible for fulfilling that role on their own. “A lot of the new guys going forward are being taught how to do it all, to be self sufficient and know their job, and that of the Marine above them.” said Shanks, a N.H. native. “Most communications Marines nowadays learn the newer side of radio, but don’t know how to operate in the field – how to set up communications equipment quickly, like you would do in major ops.”

In order to learn how to best handle their newfound responsibilities, the more junior Marines are turning to those like Shanks, now on his 3rd deployment, for guidance. “We teach them how to do the job more efficiently,” said Shanks. “They ask a lot of questions and have a lot of knowledge. If they want to try something new, we let them.”

Nearing the end of their first week at PB Alcatraz, Marines of Comm. Plt., have settled into a more consistent, albeit far-from-easy routine. They still work around the clock, but for the more junior personnel, the finer points of their craft are coming a little easier.

LCpl. William Murray sets up communications equipment. The Marines of 1/6 are conducting ops alongside ANSF.

BAGRAM AIR FIELD – Staff Sgt. Danny Estep said he firmly believes that he represents his former NCOs that helped mentor and coach him, during his 16-year military career. The ceremony marks the first time the Lifeliners brigade and the 101st STB has sponsored an SAMC induction ceremony at Bagram Air Field, since deploying to Afghanistan. “This is my first deployment, and I’ve definitely gotten a lot out of it. Getting the SAMC in a combat zone makes it pretty special,” the Ark. native said.

The Sgt. Audie Murphy Club, named after the late movie actor and most decorated Soldier in World War II, is a private org. for the Army’s enlisted NCOs. It was formed in 1986 at Fort Hood Texas, and is geared toward inducting NCOs whose leadership qualities and professional achievements best exemplify the Army values.

“This is the epitome of the NCO Corps,” Master Sgt. Michael Negron, brigade ops sgt. maj., 101st Sust. Bde. “It’s a big achievement for NCOs to get inducted. It means they’re set above their peers, and anyone who sees them knows they’re the ones who can make it happen.”

Estep, a communication switch section sgt., said that this was his second attempt at being inducted. He originally began working on his goal while he was stationed in Korea back in 2005. “My 1st sgt. there was a SAMC member, and he inspired me to want to do it,” he said. “He was a great NCO, and I loved working for him. He said to me, ‘I think you’ll make a good one,’ and he got me prepared to go.”

He got delayed when the Eighth Army raised the SAMC Army Physical Fitness Score qualification to 300 points. He eventually left Korea, and took on assignments as instructor and recruiter that left him no time to study and prepare. “I got mentally prepared. He trained me up, but I didn’t have the time. I never lost the desire to be inducted,” Estep said.

“I wanted my 1st sgt. to know that I wanted to be like him,” he said. “When my 1st sgt. in theater said that I should go, that was the only push I needed.” Bde. Command Sgt. Maj., Command Sgt. David Thompson described Estep as “the epitome of a great NCO.”

“I wish I had 10 more of him in this bde., but we're inundated with a lot of great NCOs here,” he said. “For him to be a junior NCO performing a grade or 2 above his rank is phenomenal. Alpha gets the reward of having him in their ranks every day.”

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DVIDS

A Different Fight in Helmand at Fiddlers Green

Story and photos by Cpl. Jeff Drew

Marines with Charlie Btry, 1st Bn, 12th Marine Regt, fire an M982 Excalibur round from an M777 howitzer, during a recent fire support mission. In between fire missions, the Marines continue with daily life. They also mentor their ANA counterparts, and constantly rehearse their positions to guarantee their artillery rounds hit their targets when CF need their help.

These Marines fight a different fight. They're rarely called upon to patrol in the fields and farmlands of Helmand prov. Rather, their fight resides right on the gun line within their base. They know lives are on the line when they receive a request for fire, and the weight of making sure they send rounds accurately downrange, falls squarely on their shoulders. They live feet from their M777 howitzer artillery cannons to ensure swift and timely movement to their weapons at a moment’s notice, but in between missions, they still make time to enjoy the little things that make life here agreeable.

The Marines must be ever-vigilant, regardless of the day’s activities: while performing routine duties, in the middle of a meal, during a coveted conversation with a family member, or even while taking a shower. If the call for fire support comes, they must answer it.

An M777 howitzer kicks rocks and dust into the air after firing during a recent mission. The Marines with Charlie Btry, remain undaunted as they listen to the recorder to see if they've another mission.

Marines quickly reload their M777 howitzer during a recent fire support mission. At any moment artillery Marines must be ready to support calls for fire. Oftentimes, the call comes when they're eating a meal or working out at the gym, causing Marines to run to the gun line in various forms of dress, while throwing on their protective flak jackets and Kevlar helmets.

Marines dig in to secure the legs of their M777 howitzer. At any moment the Marines may be called for a fire mission, so maintaining their positions is essential.

Marines fire an M982 Excalibur round from an M777 howitzer during a recent fire support mission. The artillerymen spend hours each day, running through dry-fire training drills to keep their skills sharp in preparation for requests for fire support.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 18, 2011

North

KUNDUZ PROVINCE -- In Kunduz district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspect, during an op in search of an insurgent leader, yesterday. The leader plans suicide bomb attacks both in Kunduz and Badakhshan provs.

South

ZABUL PROVINCE — An ANSF and ISAF patrol killed a senior insurgent leader, during an op in Khak-E Afghan district, in an op that was ongoing throughout the week. The leader commanded approx 20 to 30 insurgents, and was a known lethal aid and IED facilitator. He was directly responsible for planning, coordinating and conducting numerous attacks against ANSF and CF, throughout Zabul.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- During an op to disrupt an insurgent network in Musa Qal’Ah district, yesterday, a combined Afghan and coalition patrol detained several insurgents. The op seized 22-lbs (10 kgs) of opium, IED components, and small arms.

----- In Reg-e Khan Neshin district, a coalition patrol uncovered a drug cache, yesterday, consisting of 315-lbs (143 kgs) of hashish. One suspected insurgent was detained during the op.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader, during an op in Kandahar district. The leader received shipments of explosives and weapons, used to support Taliban ops in the area.

East

LOGAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol detained 2 insurgents, including a suspected insurgent leader in Khoshi district, yesterday. The leader is responsible for supplying lethal aid used in attacks against ANSF and CF.

----- In Muhammad Aghah district, yesterday, a combined Afghan and coalition patrol detained 2 insurgents, including a suspected insurgent leader. The leader is an IED facilitator, responsible for attacks against ANSF and CF.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a facilitator in Gomal district, yesterday. The facilitator plans and conducts attacks against CF in the Sarobi and Orgun districts.

COB BASRA – Soldiers with the 414th CAB recently redeployed from COB Basra. These reservists made up the military support element, whose mission was to support the U.S. Dept of State in leading the PRT in Basrah prov. In July, the PRT transitioned to the U.S. Consulate General in preparation for the drawdown of U.S. troops.

“Our mission was to help rebuild the infrastructure within Basrah prov., in particular, to assist the State Dept in accomplishing their mission,” said 1st Lt. Raymond Bixler, officer-in-charge of the consulate tactical ops center. "The mission was to assist the State Dept in the transition from a military op to a diplomatic mission," he added.

"It was a civil affairs mission guided towards assisting and advising the State Dept," said Col. Lavore Richmond, cmdr. for the military support element. “We provided them with security when needed; we provided them with red zone pick- ups for the escorting of key leaders from the Iraqi govt.”

The military support element was also instrumental in programs that focused on improving the infrastructure of Basrah, Maysan, Muthanna, and Dhi Qar provs. “A lot of the PRT projects were in economics, dealing with incoming commerce projects. We did some women’s initiatives where women were given opportunities to get funding for small businesses,” said Richmond. "The PRT worked with the provincial gov., to help improve essential services and U.S.-Iraq relations," said Richmond.

"These programs relied on money provided by the Cmdr’s Discretionary Fund, and the Cmdr’s Emergency Response Program, (CERP)" said Bixler. “All the CERP projects within Basrah prov., went through us,” he said. “We used that money to refurbish schools, build a school, drill a well, build a water treatment plant, whatever needed to be done.”

Now that U.S. Forces are leaving Iraq, the reconstruction efforts in the southern provs., will be led by the consulate here, and focus on developing stronger ties with the Iraqi people. “We knew we were working ourselves out of a job,” said Richmond. “It’s bittersweet seeing it come to an end, knowing we're the last ones.”

Cpl. Khai Tran, 414th CAB, is awarded the Army Commendation Medal. Tran provided security for key-leader engagements, for the U.S. Consulate General in Basra.

Children in the Sangar Valley reach out to ANA Soldiers and 45th IBCT, as they walk back to the mouth of the valley, Oct. 2. The ANA and 45th IBCT worked together to clear the valley of insurgent activity, and to show the local villagers that they're committed to fighting the insurgency, wherever they may be.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – More than 600 Soldiers in search of insurgent activity, weapons caches, and material used to make homemade explosives, is making another big push to secure Laghman Prov’s Sangar Valley. “We're trying to disrupt insurgent activities in the Sangar Valley,” said Capt. Morgan Ashworth, cmdr. of Co C., 1st Bn, 179 Inf, 45th IBCT. “The ANA increases their interaction with the people, showing them that their forces can protect them, and they know how to conduct large scale ops like these against their enemies.”

Crowds of men and children watched from their rooftops and lined the streets. They greeted both Afghan and American Soldiers with handshakes and smiles. In the mostly peaceful village of Sangar, Soldiers searched houses, businesses and fields. During the search, the villagers were grateful and spoke to the Soldiers, even offered food as they passed through.

Villagers came out to see the Soldiers during every step of their march in and out of the valley. Many of them were children cheering and holding their thumbs up as Soldiers passed by. “We're all out visiting with you,” said a local villager while talking to Soldiers. “We like you guys. If we didn’t like you we would all leave.”

Afghan and U.S. Soldiers did find an IED making facility in a house within the village. Among the findings were several AK 47s, ammo, knives and bomb-making materials. “I'm hoping ths mission will help free the local population from insurgent control,” said Ashworth. “They currently have a stronghold, and by showing them that the ANSF and the GoA are here, and willing to take an active role in their safety and security, will slowly bring them out of that insurgent control, and into a positive and strong relationship with GoA.”

Most of the fighting took place in the mountains surrounding the Sangar Valley. Insurgents attacked outlying positions, but they had little effect on the Soldiers, who returned fire and called in airstrikes. No Soldiers or civilians were injured during the engagement.

The commitment to ensure the safety of village members in the Sangar Valley warranted a patrol base (PB) to be built near the mouth of it, giving the population a hasty response to insurgent activity. The base is Afghan lead.

Spc. James Wagner of Co A, rests while he pulls security, as troops search houses within the Sangar Valley. The ANA and 45th IBCT cleared and held Sangar Valley for nearly a week, in order to root out insurgent activity.

KHOWST PROVINCE - A radar dish malfunctioned, Sept. 15, near COP Chamkani, a small outpost located in a remote, mountainous region near the Pakistan border. A repair team was summoned to perform the risky task of fixing it. They would traverse a mountain in a hostile environment to replace the broken radar. Within an hour, the team diagnosed the system, replaced the radar and, was ready to move on to the next mission.

The team was led by Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Sutton, who works with intricate computer systems, known as LCMR. “I love this job and everything that comes with it,” said Sutton. “This job saves lives.”"Part of that job is making sure the LCMR system is in good working order," he said.

“The LCMR is a tool well suited for the fight that CF are currently engaged in with insurgents,” said Spc. Magella Correa of Hawaii, one of Sutton’s team members and a mechanic from Delta Btry, 26 Target Acquisition Btry, 82nd AD. “Due to the LCMR’s ability to detect and designate where enemy mortars are fired, we're able to find and counter-fire on the insurgent that attacked us,” Correa added.

Sutton said that he started his career primarily to “see the world through a secured job.” As he matured, so did his desire to care for his growing family, which now consists of his wife Tiffany, son Christopher, and daughter Icis.

Working long hours and being constantly on the move isn’t easy. For Sutton, however, his family plays a large part in why he does this job. “It’s hard to be away from them, especially missing out on my son’s soccer games, and my daughter’s gymnastics and piano lessons, but they understand this is my job,” he explained. “This is what I do to take care of them, as well as the nation as a whole.”

Since Sutton’s team, based out of FOB Salerno, is in constant demand, they're never in one spot for long. He stays in contact with his family as much as possible via Skype. Most of Sutton’s time is spent making the journey to a number of different COPs. They're constantly on the move, and as a result are given warm welcomes at several of the more remote COPs, like Chamkani. “It’s a great honor to know you're recognized for doing good work,” he said.

"Being a fire finder radar operator isn’t easy. It requires its techs to be highly knowledgeable about the equipment, to be able to troubleshoot the dish," Sutton said. For Sutton’s team, they stay sharp by staying busy. “Most Soldiers get their training through classes and reading. We get ours through actual hands-on experience, and in most cases, while under duress,” he said.

“Being a Soldier is being dedicated to the military lifestyle and our country. It’s more than wearing a uniform; it’s about sacrifice, hard work, and doing everything you can to wear the uniform with pride,” Sutton said. “To me, every Soldier’s job is an important one.”

“Sgt. 1st Class Sutton is a hard-charging, mission-first leader,” said Warrant Officer Bryan Nelson of Texas; also of HHB, 1st Bn., 6th FAR. “Its Sutton’s knowledge of the radar systems that is so essential to the mission readiness in our AO,” said Nelson. “By keeping the radars up to date and operational, Sutton is providing overwatch of insurgents’ indirect fire in all of TF Duke.”

Sutton credits his family as the ones providing him inspiration to do the things that need to be done, regardless of how tired he may be, or how dangerous the task. “My family looks at me as their hero, so I work hard on being that person for them,” Sutton said. “My son told me ‘Dad, you’re my hero,’ and because of his words, I do everything I can to do things better than before, because I don’t want to ever let my Family down.”

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Blackanthem Military News

Faces from the Front: A Soldier's Love of Football

By Spc. Darryl Montgomery

Master Sgt. Marvin Morgan, the 504th Battlefield Surveillance Bde's Equal Opportunity Advisor, enjoys teaching children the game of playing football, Oct. 13. Morgan, a Texan, said he wants to ensure that each child underneath the reflection of his voice, becomes a better person, student, and player of the best game ever played. (Courtesy photos from Master Sgt. Marvin Morgan)

FOB SPIN BOLDAK -- Football captivates a lot of military members throughout their lives, but, one Soldier in particular has been more involved with this sport than most can ever say they've ever imagined. Master Sgt. Marvin Morgan is a full-time Soldier and a football coach when he's not Soldiering.

Morgan, who currently coaches 9 to 11-year-olds, has been coaching since 2001, and said that he has many wonderful memories from his time on the sideline. He feels that his time as a coach has been successful so far.

"Success for me isn't necessarily measured in wins and losses," Morgan said. "It's being able to watch a kid who doesn't know how to play at first, but by the end of the year, you see they have a skill set they can build upon."

"Last year, we had 23 kids on the team and 15 of them had never played football in their life. Of the 8 other players, only 5 of them had played more than one year," Morgan said. "To bring them together and try to build a cohesive team and win a game…that's the challenge I like."

Morgan likes to instill qualities in his young players that many do not see until they're much older. "You aren't just an athlete, you're a student-athlete," he said. "To play for Coach Morgan, you're a student first. If you can't get it right in the classroom, you're not going to be able to get it right on the football field. Therefore, you can't play for me."

Morgan said that when children learn about the student-athlete concept early on, they'll be better able to handle it when they get to the level where it's required, such as high school and college. "Discipline is another big area I focus on, because it takes discipline on the field," he said. "To know the right snap-count, to be able to know and run the right plays, it all takes discipline. It's hard to be disciplined in that if you aren't disciplined at home or in the classroom."

Morgan says that he has had a lot of rewarding experiences, but the most rewarding experience he has had as a coach so far is to hear about how his kids have matured academically and socially. "That's our motto, 'to play like a champion,'" he said. "But, to play like a champion, you have to practice like a champion; you have to think like a champion, and you have to act like a champion. You can't just go play like a champion; there are things a champion does to become a champion."

"The plan is, when I get home from this deployment, and we fall into the next football season, I'm going to coach one more year with the 9 through 11-year-olds, before I move up to middle school aged kids.""I feel like I've mastered the age group I coach now," he added, "so, I'd like to see what I can do with older kids."

Morgan, who has a master's degree in education, said that when he decides to retire from the military, he would like to apply to become an asst. principal at a middle school, and coach football at the school, which will help positively influence the students on and off the football field.

Master Sgt. Morgan and his 2009 football team, Steelers.

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Regional Command-West

Brigade ‘Sassari’ Winter Operations in the Transition Process

Story by Col. Vincenzo Lauro

HERAT – During the last days, RC-W has initiated the planning activities of the coming “Winter Ops,” as part of the Transition process aimed at the progressive transfer of security responsibilities to the GoA.The result of a more extensive and continued cooperation between the allied forces of the RC-W and ANSF, saw the staff of the Brigade "Sassari," planning side by side with their Afghan counterparts in the conception and development of the maneuver, giving them the tools they need to address and correct analysis and resolution of operational problems.

The meetings of the "Combined Team West" took place at Camp Zafar [home of 207th ANA Corps], at the Ops Coordination Center Regional, and at Camp Arena (home of the Command of RC-W) to emphasize the importance of the role that each actor has to play in the complex and difficult process of transition.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 17, 2011

North

FARYAB PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed an insurgent and detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Ghormach district, yesterday. The leader is responsible for planning and directing attacks against Afghan forces, weapon facilitation, and enforcing illegal taxes on local nationals.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of an insurgent network facilitator in Sarobi district, yesterday. The facilitator provides money and supplies, and harbors network leaders throughout the region.

----- In Gardez district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of an insurgent network leader. The leader coordinates roadside bomb attacks, and is directly responsible for recent attacks in the Zurmat and Gardez districts.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in the Muhammad Aghah district, yesterday. The facilitator distributes weapons and roadside bombs to insurgent fighters for use in attacks against Afghan forces. KHOST PROVINCE -- In Musa Khel district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor patrol discovered a weapons cache, Oct. 17. The cache consisted of 5 IEDs, 4 IED primers, 3 hand grenades, a grenade fuse, various ammo, and 2 ANA uniforms. Two suspected insurgents were also detained.

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained several suspected insurgents during an op in search of an insurgent leader in Ghazni district, Oct. 16. The leader is responsible for the deaths of 4 Afghan police officers, and numerous IED attacks against Afghan and CF.

South

HELMAND PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed 2 insurgents and detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in Kajaki district, yesterday. The facilitator coordinates shipments of explosives and weapons used to support Taliban ops in the area. Two assault rifles and an ammo pouch were seized by the SecFor.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor patrol discovered a narcotics cache, during an op to disrupt an insurgent network in Nahr-E Saraj district, yesterday. The operation seized 220-lbs (100 kgs) of opium and 220-lbs (100 kgs) of ammonium nitrate.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- In Kandahar district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator. The facilitator is responsible for the movement of ammo and explosives between Kandahar and Zabul provs.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor patrol discovered a narcotics cache in Zharay district, Oct. 17. The cache consisted of 176-lbs (80 kgs) of hashish. Three suspected insurgents were also detained.

----- In Khak-E Afghan district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed several insurgents, during an op targeting a Taliban leader, Oct. 16. During the op the SecFor received small arms fire from insurgents in the area. Assessing a direct threat the force returned fire, killing the insurgents. A quantity of small arms, ammo, and communication devices were seized. Numerous suspected insurgents were also detained.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed a Taliban leader and his assoc., with a precision air strike in Tarnek wa Jaldak district, yesterday. The target of the op led numerous insurgent fighters, and was responsible for roadside bomb and ambush attacks against Afghan forces.

West

HERAT PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SECFOR killed several insurgents, during an op targeting an insurgent leader in Nizam-E Shahid district, Oct. 16. The target of the op is responsible for kidnappings, planning and coordinating attacks against Afghan and CF throughout Herat. The SecFor was fired upon by insurgents with RPGs, heavy machine gun and small arms fire. Assessing the direct threat, the force returned fire, killing the insurgents. ASF also detained a suspected insurgent.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

New life for Trenchard Lines

Story and photo by Pvt. Andrew Slovensky

A handler with security personnel for the U.S. Consulate in Basrah, plays fetch with a K-9 on COB Basra, Oct. 9. The military support element turned the soccer field on Trenchard Lines, a living sustainment area, into a fenced in area for the dogs to get exercise.

COB BASRA – Many U.S. soldiers and civilians serving in Iraq have inhabited Trenchard Lines, a living sustainment area on COB Basra, since British forces left the camp in 2009. Earlier this year, it was vacated.

The camp’s namesake, British officer Hugh Trenchard, lost a lung and was partially paralyzed, after sustaining a gunshot wound to his chest during a battle in South Africa in 1900. In a bobsledding accident during his recovery in Switzerland, Trenchard regained the ability to walk unaided, and went on to become Marshal of the Royal AF. Today, he is known as the father of the Royal AF.

To properly house security personnel for the U.S. Consulate in Basrah, Trenchard Lines needed its own miraculous recovery to make it livable once again. Army Reserve soldiers with the 414th CAB, 352nd Civil Affairs Command, worked with contractors to bring new life to the formerly vacant camp.

“We needed to figure out a way to resuscitate it, and to have it operational as a safe environment for people who are providing crucial services to the consulate,” said Piper Campbell, consul general for the U.S. Consulate General in Basrah. “We wouldn’t have been able to stand that camp up, to have people move in there, live in conditions of security and safety, and all the necessary sanitation, if it hadn’t been for the work of the military support element.”

"The offices and containerized housing units, or CHUs, of Trenchard were missing a/cs and furniture, or didn’t have power," said 1st Lt. Raymond Bixler, officer-in-charge for the military support element for the consulate.

“We were able to start sweeping the trash out, and hauling it off,” said Bixler. “We would clean the CHUs out and install a/cs. We fixed the lights and put in new smoke alarms, doing anything we could do to make the camp livable.”

The soldiers and contractors installed new latrine and shower facilities, found equipment for the gym, turned empty offices into an Internet café and recreation room for camp residents, and installed outdoor lighting. They turned the soccer field into a fenced in playground, so the handlers of working dogs could give their furry companions proper exercise.

“Whatever needed doing, that’s what we did to get this camp stood up,” said Staff Sgt. Carl Pascocello, camp mgr. for Trenchard Lines. “When we came here, Trenchard was literally falling apart. It took some sweat and some love, but we put it back together again.”

Chaplain (Maj.) Stanton Trotter (left), of CA., and Capt. Brian Andes of Ohio, trial counsel for TF Poseidon, 82nd CAB, 82nd AD, run across the finish line of the 2011 Army 10-miler Shadow Run at Bagram Airfield. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Donna Davis)

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – It’s 5 a.m. on a dark, cold morning in Afghanistan and nearly 1,000 servicemembers and civilians are flooding across the starting line of the Army 10-miler, Oct. 9. Donning reflective belts and protective eyewear required on Bagram Airfield, they pad down the street, and the crowd begins to thin and stretch out just a half-mile in to the race. For some, the challenge of running 10 miles here relies on maintaining physical fitness in the midst of working more than 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. For 82nd CAB Soldiers, who began arriving at Bagram in waves over the past few weeks, it’s a battle between personal will and the environment.

“If I can’t do it, I can’t expect my Soldiers to do it – have them come out and push themselves past their limit, and beyond,” said Staff Sgt. David Carrington, TF Atlas, 122nd Aviation Support Bn safety NCO. For those who haven’t had the time to acclimate, choking exhaust from diesel trucks, and ever-present swirling dust clouds, for once, take a back seat to the much thinner air at Bagram’s higher elevation.

Fort Bragg lies approximately 325 feet above sea level. Bagram Airfield, however, is perched among the Hindu Kush mountain range at 4,895 feet. The difference in altitude is 4,570 feet, which is the same height as the Washington Monument stacked 8 high.

“Oh, it’s a challenge; it’s a challenge. It’s not like back at Bragg,” said Carrington, of N.C. “Once you get up to this elevation you feel it.” Bagram was one of 13 overseas locations hosting official Army Ten-Miler-sponsored shadow runs, according to the race’s official website. Ten of those locations were in Afghanistan.

The Army Ten-Miler is one of the largest 10-mile races in the world, and is the Army’s premier running event. It was started in 1985 to promote the Army, support fitness goals, enhance community relations, and most importantly, build espirit-de-corps.

“It’s all about team-building skills,” said Sgt 1st Class Linus Felix, an ops sgt with TF Atlas, 122nd Aviation Support Bn, and a native of U.S. Virgin Islands. “It’s all about building that team, you know. I try to keep the young Soldiers motivated, and that’s pretty much why I did it.”

This year’s 10-miler had more than 30,000 runners worldwide, and more than 500 registered runners on Bagram Airfield alone. Proceeds from the race go to Army Morale, Welfare and Recreation, a comprehensive network of support and leisure services designed to enhance the lives of Soldiers and their families. -30-

DVIDS

Laghman PRT Participates in Air Recon

Photos by AF Staff Sgt. Ryan Crane, Laghman PRT

LAGHMAN PROVINCE - AF Staff Master Sgt. David Vinatieri, civil engr. deployed out of F.E. Warren AF Base, Wyo., attached to the Laghman PRT, inspects a school from a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter in the Alingar district, Oct. 7. The PRT conducted an air recon due to the unforgiving terrain and known insurgent activity in the area.

Kunar Deputy Dir. of Ed. Abdul Qahar and Khas Kunar District Gov. Khwa unveil the school plaque in Khas Kunar District, Sept. 13. The Kunar PRT funded and oversaw the schools' construction. Schools like the one at Zagrano Bando are meant to provide a better future for Afghan children. So far, the PRT has managed the completion of 28 schools.

KUNAR PROVINCE – “When there's education there are no criminals. The prison door is shut,” said Abdul Qahar. A few weeks earlier, Kunar Dir. of Ed., Jamalahadin Hussaini opened the Pashad School, Aug. 21. and Provincial Gov. Wahidi joined him to open the Yargul School, Aug. 15. “If a country has education, it will have development. It's necessary that every prov. has good education,” said Hussaini.To ensure building integrity and to prevent fraud, Kunar PRT engrs. must inspect the schools on a regular basis throughout the construction process. Lt. Cmdr. Kjell Tengesdal, an engr. with the PRT, frequently travels to the schools to check the contractor’s quality of work.

"Quality assurance visits ... ensure that the buildings and roads are being constructed in a sound, safe and professional manner,” said Tengesdal. “Additionally, these visits allow the PRT engrs. the opportunity to train and mentor our Afghan counterparts in modern construction and inspection techniques, as well as ensure that the projects will be constructed to last, and will serve the people of Afghanistan for many years to come."

The PRT writes the school contracts to include provisions for companies to hire local workers. This provision helps bring money and jobs into the local communities, while giving workers alternatives to criminal and insurgent activities, and increase site security. Current contracts require 80% of the workforce to be from Afghanistan, and 50% to be from the local area around a school site, according to PRT contracting guidance.

Alongside the PRT and provincial govt, other countries and orgs. also fund school construction throughout Kunar and Afghanistan, helping to build a future for its children.

Sgt. 1st Class James Nichols (left), a native of St. Louis, Spc. Christopher Isaac (center), a native of N.Y., both assigned to Btry C, 1st Bn, TF Blackhawk, and Pfc. Tyus Hymes (right), a native of Cali., assigned to HHC, 3rd Bn, TF Blackhawk, prepare items for the following day's menu at COP Waza Khwa. Preparation and time mgt. are essential when operating at high demand and minimal staff. These 3 soldiers run the entire dining facility through 4 meals a day, 7 days a week.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – On the short list of things every Soldier needs, food is pretty high up there. The Army provides Soldiers with everything to fight and win wars, to include the sometimes good, sometimes not-so-good Meals Ready to Eat, aka the MRE.

An MRE has all the ingredients a Soldier needs to sustain him for one whole meal – an entrée, a side dish, a snack and even 2 pieces of minty fresh gum. What an MRE doesn’t have, however, is the love and care that 3 dedicated Army cooks provide, to over 250 satisfied customers per meal. Sgt. 1st Class James Nichols, assisted by 2 junior enlisted Soldiers and 2 local nationals, takes on this challenging task to the best of his abilities. “Balancing the workload, at the beginning, was a challenge,” said Nichols. “Eventually continuity came into play and it all worked out.” Nichols and his crew prepare, cook and set out the meals on their own. There's no morning shift or night crew; there are no days off, and free time is scarce.

“I joined the Army intentionally to become a cook,” said Pfc. Tyus Hymes. “I love it when they come in and compliment me on the food that I make. Every time I get a compliment it puts a smile on my face and makes me want to try harder.” It’s hard work, yet they find comfort in knowing they're providing a necessary service for those, who otherwise, would simply not get it without them.

“Providing hot meals, as much as we can, for as long as we can, increases morale and sustains morale,” Nichols explained. “Everyone deployed deserves and likes a home cooked meal.” A warning used to be given by some before coming to Waza Khwa, to bring an MRE or 2 along, because the dining facility only served one hot meal a day.

The tireless Soldiers at the dining facility have taken it upon themselves to provide 3 hot meals, and midnight chow every day. “It’s not about me,” said Spc. Christopher Isaac. “It’s about the Soldiers. It’s about giving the same attention that I was given, and 100% more to them.”

Nichols and his crew may have the best dining facility in theatre, according to some of its patrons. Unfortunately, the Waza Khwa dining facility will be closing its doors for good soon. These 3 motivated food service specialists are slated to pack up and move to a different FOB, Super FOB, also in Paktika. There, they'll join forces with whoever is already there and add their skills and motivation to the mix. “We can use our skills that we built up as a team, and move on to help that team over there,” Isaac said, unfazed by the move. “We can take our joint skills and make things better.”

COP Waza Khwa is one of the first to be handed over to Afghan forces. It won’t be the last. “Our goal was to do the best we could do each and every day, day in and day out, and leave a reputation and a mark,” Nichols reflected. “This is our passion - this is what we love to do. Our satisfaction is when we see a Soldier come into our facility to consume a good quality meal, and walk away with a smile on their face.”

Pfc. Tyus Hymes moves steaming-hot chicken from a cooking pot to a serving pan. The pot had recently been pulled from an improvised barbeque pit. Hymes uses food thermometers to ensure all items are cooked to the proper temp.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Chris Bodoh, a native of N.Y., as the brigade food service advisor, helps Sgt. 1st Class James Nichols, lift a pot of chicken. Nichols uses skills as an NCO, and an experienced food service specialist, to safely prepare hot meals, using whatever means available. Frequent power outages force Nichols and his team to be creative when completing meals.

Sgt. 1st Class James Nichols prepares the serving line for the upcoming meal, Oct. 8 .

Spc. Christopher Isaac wraps spaghetti for the next day's menu, while Sgt. 1st Class James Nichols supervises. Prior planning is vital to running a dining facility, especially when it's run by only 3 dedicated Soldiers.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 16, 2011

North

BAGHLAN PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader and one additional suspected insurgent, during a security op in Baghlan-e Jadid district, yesterday. The leader planned direct attacks against Afghan forces, and placed roadside bombs throughout the region.

East

WARDAK PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SECFOR conducted a search in Chak-e Wardak district, yesterday, for a Haqqani network leader responsible attacks against Afghan govt officials. At the onset of the op, the SecFor called for individuals inside of the compound to exit peacefully. After refusing, an individual was observed pointing a weapon through a window toward the SecFor. Assessing an immediate threat, the force fired at the armed individual. A second individual armed with a rifle appeared and the force fired a second time. Elsewhere at the location, the SecFor was threatened a third time by a suspected insurgent, and again returned fire, killing him. Once inside the building, it was discovered that 2 of the 3 armed individuals were females. Following the op, the SecFor met with village leaders to inform them about the events. Additionally, the force detained 2 suspected insurgents and confiscated 3 AK-47 assault rifles, ammo pouches, and a grenade from the compound.

CAMP TAJI - In front of assembled guests, the 8-229 ARB officially wrapped up its deployment, and made room for the 1-151st to move in. More than 400 Soldiers strong, 1-151st ARB is now conducting convoy security and recon missions in support of the drawdown of U.S. troops.

Master Sgt. Michael Uswa, ops NCO-in-charge of HHC, 1-151st, said, "Finally, our time was starting for us to do our mission of providing security for convoys leaving theater, the local area, and the nearby COBs."

"We may be one of the last units to take a command here in Iraq," said 1st Sgt. Terrence Powell, of E Co, 1-151st. "I'm very proud to be a member of the S.C. Army N.G., and this unit, which I have been in for 29 years. We're here making history. ... Seeing the colors unveiled was a moment full of emotion I'll never forget."

Currently, TF Marauder is conducting split base ops with A Co, 1-151st at COB Warrior in Kirkuk, while working with a 5-team ope at Camp Taji, with A Co, 1st Assault Helicopter Bn, 185th Aviation Regt; the 6th Sqdn, 17th Cav Regt; QRC 1-R2 Gray Eagle; and the 1st General Support Bn, 171st Aviation Regt.

"It's going to broaden our scope of air ops," said Maj. John McElveen, of the 1-151, on taking over ops in Iraq from the 8-229. "It's not what we're used to. We're going to have to get out of our comfort zone and learn other skills, but I know we have the right people to do it."

After handing over the reins to his counterpart, Posey said that his Soldiers had gained valuable experience over the deployment, and had successfully accomplished their mission. "We're glad we finished strong and safe, and we're ready to back to our families and back to a normal life."

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Sgt. Christopher Tunis, a native of Fla., assigned to Co A, 172nd Support Bn, 172nd Inf Bde, TF Blackhawk, prepares parachute cord to be used in the rigging of a sling load, Oct. 5, at FOB Sharana. Tunis, using knowledge gained by repetition, measured the cord by memory, to the proper length. Tunis and his fellow Soldiers at the helicopter landing zone, regularly prepare and ship many different types of loads on a daily basis.

Sgt. Tunis uses low-tensile strength rope to hold the bundle of aircraft rigging together. The thin rope is used primarily to hold the rigging together, while the aircraft hovers overhead during sling load ops. When the helicopter increases altitude, the weak cord snaps, and the high strength rigging returns to its natural state under the aircraft.

A Chinook helicopter descends onto the helicopter landing zone. Soldiers of Co A, prepared a generator to be picked up and sling loaded to another FOB. Sling load ops are critical to getting equipment and supplies to outlying areas, where terrain is impassable by ground vehicles.

Sgt. Aracelly Castillo, a native of N.Y., braces a flight line crewmember, as he signals an approaching helicopter into position. Castillo and the crewmember carefully and safely guided the helicopter to pick up a sling-loaded generator.

Sgt.Tunis readies himself as a Chinook helicopter hovers overhead, getting into a safe position to pick up the prepared sling load. A crewmember leans out the side of the aircraft to act as another set of eyes to help guide the Chinook safely into position. Accidents are avoided by using proper safety equipment, constant communication, and exhaustive training.

Sgt. Aracelly Castillo, carefully stretches the cargo straps up to the outstretched hand of an aircraft crewmember. The metal ring is pulled inside and draped over a hook that is attached to the rigid interior frame of the helicopter. Castillo and her fellow Soldiers regularly conduct sling load ops.

A Chinook helicopter lifts off with a sling-loaded generator to be taken to an outlying location.

-30-

DVIDS

Blackhawks Dig Deep, Stay Sharp, Work Hard

Photos by Army Staff Sgt. Luke Graziani

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Staff Sgt. Carlos Caceres-Morales (left), a native of Puerto Rico, assigned to Co A, 172nd Support Bn, 172nd Inf. Bde, TF Blackhawk, uses hand and arm signals to communicate directions to a forklift driver, Oct. 5, at FOB Sharana. Sgt. Nathanael Bordash (center), from Mich., and Spc. Cory Drayton (right), from Fla., both assigned to Co. A, stand by to assist Caceres-Morales. The Soldiers work at the fuel point, and are replacing a fuel pump while maintaining safety and working efficiently.

Cpl. Michael Gallegor, a native of Colo., assigned to Co A, maneuvers his forklift through the fuel point, while carrying a new fuel pump. The Soldiers who work at the fuel point must be able to conduct repairs, while still maintaining a functional facility.

Sgt. Robbie Harrell (center), a native of Fla., assigned to Co A, carefully pushes a new fuel pump into place. Staff Sgt. Carlos Caceres-Morales and Sgt. Nathanael Bordash, help to safely guide the large pump into its new home.

Soldiers of Co A, retrieved the replacement and moved the new unit into place, without causing major disruptions of the fuel point ops.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Khowst PRT Upholds Gen. Petraeus' Promise to Jaji Maidan

Photos by Senior Airman Sandra Welch

KHOWST PROVINCE -- Navy Lt. Cmdr. Scott Rivera, Khowst PRT lead engr. from Iowa, and Al VanGuilder, an engr. attached to Khowst PRT from Minn., speak with the Jaji Maidan High School Headmaster, during a final inspection of the Jaji Maidan High School English language computer lab project, in the Jaji Maidan District, Oct. 4.

Al VanGuilder checks a computer during a final inspection of the computer lab project. During a visit to the district in June, now retired Army Gen. David Petraeus, former ISAF cmdr., promised to provide the school with computers for students to learn English. The PRT installed 15 new computers, and repaired 8 existing computers, and included English learning software, to deliver on Petraeus' promise.

Sgt. Anthony Gallon, a human intel collector from Va., with Co B, STB, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, hands off a case of water to a Wazi Zadran official, Sept. 3. Gallon coordinated for 60 cases of water to be distributed to the people of Wazi Zadran, as a stop-gap measure when their well began making villagers sick. (Courtesy photo)

PAKTYA PROVINCE -- When the villagers of Wazi Zadran District, began falling ill in Sept., dirty drinking water was deemed the cause. Sgt. Anthony Gallon quickly took action to help resolve this issue, and help the people in the local area. Assigned to COP Wilderness on the mountainous border between Khowst and Paktya provs., Gallon interacts with villagers in the local area on a daily basis.

The former college football player said that he couldn't just "sit on the sidelines," when he found out about the tainted water. "We as Americans take clean drinking water for granted," said Gallon, adding that "supplying the locals with clean water until they can fix their well is just too easy."

Gallon coordinated with U.S. civil affairs teams, then with the sub-gov. of Wazi Zadran district, to identify the best method of delivering it and ensuring that all villagers had access. They came up with a plan to give the water directly to the Wazi Zadran Clinic, so that villagers would learn to rely on their own govt agencies instead of CF.

As a long-term solution, the civil affairs teams coordinated with the provincial health dept., and Paktya PRT. The PRT has plans to provide further aid to the village, by helping to conduct regular tests of their water, provide medical care at their clinic, and provide education material on how to properly treat their water before consuming it.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 15, 2011

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition security force captured a Taliban facilitator during a security operation in Kandahar district, Kandahar province, yesterday. The facilitator moved explosives, weapons and insurgent fighters throughout Kandahar City. Multiple weapons were seized during the op.

East

PAKTIKA PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed 3 insurgents and detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Gomal district, yesterday. The leader is responsible for roadside bomb and ambush attacks. Multiple weapons were seized during the op.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- In Zurmat district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained numerous suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader procures weapons and prepares roadside bombs for use in attacks against Afghan forces in the Sarobi district. The SecFor also seized multiple weapons and homemade explosives.

KHOST PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Terayzai district, yesterday. The leader moved heavy machine guns and explosives throughout the region for use by insurgent fighters, and organized roadside bomb attacks against ANF.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- In Khugyani district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban facilitator and detained 2 suspected insurgents, yesterday. The facilitator trafficked narcotics and weapons for use by insurgent fighters throughout the region. The SecFor also confiscated weapons, illegal narcotics, and a military uniform.

WARDAK PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Nerkh district, yesterday. The leader plans attacks against CF in the Nerkh district.

COB ADDER – Driving over the treacherous roads of Iraq can take a tremendous toll on Army equipment and can significantly affect mission readiness. The support ops section of the 749th developed a convoy inspection process to reinforce safer ops.

In response to increasing breakdowns, equipment degradation, and a reduction in equipment readiness, Lt. Col. David Ceniti, the cmdr. of the 749th CSSB, directed the support ops staff to implement an immediate convoy inspection program to improve soldier and equipment readiness.

Master Sgt. Oren Rae, the support ops NCO-in-charge, working with Master Sgt. David Hillyer, the support ops transportation section NCOIC, developed a plan to inspect vehicle safety, and the readiness of mechanical, communications, electronic warfare, and administrative systems.

Using Alexander’s mechanical checklist as the foundation, Rae worked with the leaders to create a unified inspection process, that is now known as the 749th CSSB Quality Assurance/Quality Check (QA/QC) Program. “It was rough at first,” Rae said. “Soldiers were used to company-level inspections in company motor pools.”

The new battalion QA/QC process requires convoys to report at 5 a.m. 2 days before the convoy’s departure, and they report to staging lanes at the Wrangler Dome. “Moving the convoy to Wrangler Dome has several benefits,” Rae said. “By reporting to Wrangler Dome, we can inspect the vehicles operating, and just after movement. We identify problems you wouldn’t notice if the vehicles were stagnant in their home motor pools, such as leaks, loose wires, and cargo tie-downs after loads have shifted.”

Rae said that he appreciates the fact that soldiers now come better prepared, because they know once they leave their motor pool, they won’t have resources immediately available to them. He added that credit for the superior standards of the QA/QC process, is due to the team of experts assembled to develop the program and perform the inspections.

“Master Sgt. Hillyer has the most incredible detailed knowledge of vehicles and movement ops,” he said. “His expertise is invaluable to the successful transportation ops of this bn., and was paramount to the development of the QA/QC process.”

The battalion maintenance office, communications section, electronic warfare office, safety officer and inspection teams from the 1729th Direct Support Maintenance Co., work together to help convoys meet impeccable standards. “Pride in ownership is exuded in the vehicles we inspect,” Rae said. “Soldiers strive to receive first-time GOs and clearly are proud of their equipment and the superior standards they maintain.” Rae said that the program is an overwhelming success. Convoys roll ready, with breakdowns virtually eliminated.

“If we eliminate all things we can control, the only things left to vex us are the things we can’t control,” Rae said. “You never want to find out something you should have done — something you could have prevented — was the reason a mission fails, or worse, a soldier gets hurt. I’ve told operators and inspectors, ‘Every time we finish an inspection, we may have just saved a life.’"

Cpl. Matthew Flaherty, a military working dog handler with HSC, 1st Bn, 25th Marine Regt, and a native of Mass., posts security with Chica, an explosives detection dog, during a shura held at a bazaar located outside of Camp Leatherneck, Helmand province, Sept. 29. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss moving all of the squatters located outside of the base to a more secure location farther north.

CAMP LEATHERNECK – On the northern end of Camp Leatherneck, just outside of the perimeter, sits a shantytown by the name of “Soak City.” This hub of tents surrounding a gas station consists of several hundred Afghans who have moved there, so they can sell various wares to Afghan contractors and civilians visiting Camp Leatherneck.

Daod Mohammad, the district gov. of Washir, paid the community of merchants a visit Sept. 29, to tell them they'll have to move to a new location farther north, near Route 1. Camp Shorabak, HQ of the ANA’s 3rd Bde, 215th Corps, will be expanding its outer perimeter, which will require all of the transients to move to a new location. In addition to moving the community, Mohammad started registering Afghan civilians and contractors, so they can be taxed through the Afghan govt, and be entitled to govt services.

Lt. Col. Brian O’Leary, cmdr. of the New England based 1st Bn, 25th Marine Regt, accompanied Mohammad as he held shuras with numerous shopkeepers to discuss the move. O’Leary, whose Marines provide security on and around Camp Leatherneck, was surprised at how favorably the idea was received. “The reaction of the men at the meeting was that they don’t mind moving; they don’t mind paying taxes – just as long as security is provided for them,” said O’Leary, a native of N.Y.

The move will also allow Mohammad to build a commercial hub near Route 1, that will include a govt branch office, a police station, and a school.

Cpl. Claire Livie, an airman with the Royal AF’s 2nd Tactical Provost Sqdn, chats with an Afghan boy, while providing security during a shura.

Lt. Col. Brian O’Leary, cmdr. of 1st Bn, 25th Marine Regt, gives an Afghan boy a high five at a bazaar, located outside of Camp Leatherneck. O’Leary accompanied Daod Mohammad, the district gov. of Washir, during a shura with Afghan shopkeepers, to discuss moving them to a more secure location farther north.

Lt. Col. Brian O’Leary, cmdr. of 1st Bn, 25th Marine Regt, and Daod Mohammad, the district gov. of Washir, conduct a shura with Afghan shopkeepers at a bazaar located on the northern perimeter of Camp Leatherneck. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss moving the settlement located outside of the base, to a more secure location farther north.

BAGRAM AIR FIELD – The 101st Sust Bde “Lifeliners” awarded more than 120 officers, NCOs, and soldiers the Bronze Star Medal for their contributions to the brigade’s mission this past year in support of OEF, Oct. 9. The Bronze Star is awarded to soldiers who demonstrate heroic, or meritorious achievement, or service while engaged in military ops against an enemy of the U.S.

Col. Michael Peterman, the cmdr. of the Lifeliners, said that his formation should always take the opportunity to thank those around them. The Bronze Stars were an extension of the gratitude from a year in Afghanistan. “This deployment, in all its measurements, was done exceptionally well,” Peterman said. “Talk about making a difference at every level.”

The brigade supported 13 combat brigades across northern and eastern Afghanistan during the year, by providing logistical support necessary for their missions. They moved equipment and supplies by ground convoys, air transport and aerial delivery.

Peterman said that the brigade’s reputation as a sustainment unit expanded beyond Bagram Air Field. “No one in this theater has worked harder than you. The units that we supported do not know who you are, but they all know your reputation. You're the gold standard of an Army logistics formation,” he said.

The medal was created Feb. 4, 1944, and as Gen. George Marshall, the first general of the Army, said, "it would make the maintenance of morale of great importance. The soldiers who received the Bronze Stars represented about a third of the formation of Lifeliners who deployed this past year. The level of accolades given to this number of Lifeliners is not typical of an HQ Co.

“They were awarded for their responsibility and the effects they had on the theater,” said Maj. Mario Washington, the personnel section officer-in-charge. “We’ve done outstanding this year, and although it’s not typical, it’s deserved due to the work the people put in.”

The Lifeliners improved the way soldiers are supplied in Afghanistan, and even created new programs to better provide, and cut costs during their deployment. “Without me, none of the vehicles, ground or air, would’ve moved,” said Sgt. Grant Feeny, the water and petroleum equipment mgr. for the bde. “I literally expanded the capacity and number of fuel points in RC-North and East. Not just for the Americans, but also for the Koreans, New Zealanders, Polish and ANA.”

Feeny also started a pilferage prevention program. The program required a seal on fuel trucks driven by local nationals, to ensure that no fuel was taken on the drive from base to base. So far, the program has saved nearly 2 million dollars in pilferage.

From fuel to bullets to food, the Lifeliners took on the task of supporting the war fighter. Aside from supplying American and CF, they also took on the task of mentoring the logistics kandaks of the ANA. Spc. Sterling Beveridge received a Bronze Star for his work as a maintenance mentor for the combined action team of the 101st STB, 101st Sust. Bde. He worked as a supervisor and adviser for the Afghan mechanics of the 201st Combat Logistics Kandak.

“I made sure they did the training they were supposed to do, and I guided them along the way,” Beveridge said. “Overall, they’re smart and good workers.” Throughout the year, he mentored the Afghan Soldiers through 20 different vehicle maintenance courses, and 16 weapons maintenance courses.

The 101st STB, 101st Sust Bde also awarded the Army Commendation Medal to more than 100 officers, NCOs, and junior enlisted Soldiers, at the battalion End of Tour awards ceremony. Other brigade and battalion Soldiers received the Army Achievement Medal for their participation in organizing the NCO Induction Ceremony at BAF, and several received the Joint Service Commendation Medal and the Joint Service Achievement Medal.

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DVIDS

Marine Convoy Commander Says UAVs Saves Lives

Story and photos by Cpl. Justin Boling

RQ-7B Shadow is an UAV operated by Marine UAV Sqdn 3, in the skies of SW Afghanistan. Each Shadow carries a camera, which surveys and streams video to higher HQ and ground units, giving them a full perspective of the battlefield.

CAMP LEATHERNECK -- Marine UAV Sqdn 3’s Shadows operate out of multiple sites in Helmand prov., allowing the drones to survey virtually every corner of the SW region under NATO’s ISAF. “Mission after mission we were exposed to a barrage of small arms fire, medium machine gun, heavy machine gun and sniper fire, in addition to roadside bombs, and rocket and mortar attacks,” wrote 1st Lt. Marcos Garcia in a letter to Marine UAV Sqdn 3.

Garcia served as a convoy cmdr., with 2nd Marine Logistics Group in Helmand prov., for 7 months. According to his letter, his convoy suffered 8 IED strikes, 3 artillery and rocket attacks, 10 small-arms-fire engagements, and 3 complex ambushes, while moving fuel trucks throughout SW Afghanistan. That was until Marine UAV Sqdn 3 got involved, using their RQ-7B Shadow drones to provide invaluable aerial surveillance and recon for Garcia and his Marines. “The turn in events truly took place as soon as the Shadow supported our convoys,” wrote Garcia. “The Shadow is a remarkable asset that should be employed by any convoy traveling in a highly kinetic environment.”

“Our primary goal is to provide info needed to make ops successful,” said GySgt. Jarrad Demster, the staff NCO-in- charge of Marine UAV Sqdn 3’s Camp Leatherneck detachment. According to Demster, a native of Idaho, the survey footage collected by the Shadow is utilized by both ground and aerial forces, to plan their actions and ensure they're conducted safely and intelligently.

IEDs present a serious threat to ground forces that travel throughout SW Afghanistan. For Garcia and his Marines, the presence of the Shadow allowed them to mitigate the threat posed by roadside bombs. “We can watch areas for strange behavior, and use our camera to scan for signs of IEDs,” said Demster. “This allows us to ensure convoy routes are safe for travel, before the vehicles in the convoy even start their engines.”

On Aug. 28, Garcia and his Marines were attacked by more than 35 insurgents. The Shadow offered Garcia and joint tactical air controllers the info needed to place precise fire on enemy fighting positions. Four Hellfire missiles and a 500-pound, laser-guided bomb quickly put a stop to the enemy assault. “We aid attack aircraft and artillery assets to deliver more effective fire on targets,” said Demster. “We can also keep eyes on the target to ensure the success of the strike.”

Garcia wrote that he owes his life to the Shadow and the Marines of Marine UAV Sqdn 3. “The Shadow has proven reliable, effective and … devastating against enemy forces,” wrote Garcia. “I’m convinced that lives were saved by this asset.”

“It feels great to be reminded how important our work is,” said Demster of Garcia’s letter. “My Marines got to hear the tangible result of their efforts, and feel a sense of accomplishment.”

KANDAHAR – In the 2nd Governance, Reconstruction, and Development shura held at the Zharay District Center in 6 months, the Kandahar Provincial Gov. Wesa, and various members of Kandahar provincial ministries came together with Zharay district officials, Oct. 5, to discuss progress being made, and plans for the district in the upcoming months.

During the shura, several provincial ministry reps, including the Ministries of Public Health, Agriculture and Education, each gave an update on their plans for helping residents of Zharay, while saying that the district had come a long way in providing essential services to the population. District Gov. Sarhadi, told the attendees that people living in the district are now standing up their own village shuras and watchgroups.

“People are supporting the govt, and picking up their weapons to defend their villages,” said Gov. Sarhadi. A common topic during Sarhadi’s statement was education, and the expansion of schools across the district. He said that nearly 5,000 students were attending school throughout the area, with 1,000 of those being female students. He also highlighted the fact that Afghan and CF officials were opening 14 schools this year, versus 2 that were opened last year. Dr. Pohkla, the Provincial Ministry of Public Health rep, told the shura attendees that several medical clinics were opening in Zharay district, and said that medical staffs were already hired, and supplies delivered.

In an unexpected change to the speakers’ lineup, Gov. Sarhadi invited Haji Wali, a key influencer from Nalgham, to speak about security improvements in that area. Nalgham was previously known as a central Taliban ops node, and even had a Taliban ops center in the village center. With support from Afghan and coalition SecFor, insurgents were virtually swept away from the village, and village leaders there have now started a security shura to defend the village.

During his impromptu speech, Haji Wali charged the provincial gov., and his ministry leaders with providing more resources to the district, while looking out for the long-term impact on Zharay district. “If it's for an hour or a day, do not give it to us,” Haji Wali said, referring to short-term projects the Kandahar govt provides. “Give something to us that will last for our futures.”

Afghan-led meetings like this, show the significant improvement in Afghan governance, as well as the increased independence and stability of the Afghan leaders. The shura’s purpose was to convene local, district, and provincial leaders together, to discuss plans for showing visible progress to residents of Zharay district.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 14, 2011

North

FARYAB PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed 2 insurgents during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Ghormach district, yesterday. The leader moves weapons and roadside bombs, as well as plans suicide bomb and direct fire attacks against Afghan forces in the Ghormach and Qaisar districts. He also collects taxes from local nationals, and receives finances from foreign countries for insurgent activity.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed 3 insurgents during an op in search of Taliban leaders in Qaisar district.

KUNDUZ PROVINCE -- In Kunduz district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained an insurgent during an op in search of an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan facilitator, yesterday. The facilitator is involved in attack planning against Afghan forces in the Kunduz area.

South

HELMAND PROVINCE — During an op in search of an insurgent leader in Marjeh district, yesterday, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed 2 insurgents and detained a suspected one. The targeted insurgent network is responsible for supplying lethal aid used in attacks against Afghan and CF.

----- During the op in search of an insurgent leader in Baghran district, in an area believed to be used for narcotics production and trafficking, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor patrol killed numerous insurgents, and wounded 2 yesterday. The SecFor also discovered a narcotics cache consisting of 264-lbs (120 kgs) of opium.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed 2 insurgents and detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an operation in search of a Taliban leader in Kajaki district, yesterday. The leader negotiates with narcotic suppliers to provide finances for insurgent ops.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Musa Qal’ah district, yesterday. The leader places mines, and uses military uniforms to conduct ambush attacks against Afghan forces.

ZABUL PROVINCE -- In Tarnek wa Jaldak district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader is responsible for coordinating ambush ops, weapons trafficking, and mine emplacement throughout the region.

KHOST PROVINCE -- In Sabari district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained numerous suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader, yesterday. The leader coordinates roadside bomb and ambush attacks, and recently conducted an attack against Afghan forces in the Sabari district. The leader also oversees the transportation and distribution of mines, and coordinated insurgent activity with other Haqqani leaders in the network.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- In Zurmat district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader procures weapons and prepares roadside bombs for use in attacks against Afghan forces. The SecFor also seized bomb-making materials during the op.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and CF detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Muhammad Agha district, yesterday. The leader plans car bomb attacks throughout the region. The SecFor confiscated numerous rockets and bomb-making materials during the op.

Sgt. Troy Sims, a human resources sgt. with the human resources directorate, USF - Iraq, stands with other service members, during a joint re-enlistment ceremony, held here Oct. 5. More than 100 soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines re-enlisted to stay in the service of their nation.

AL ASAD AIR BASE – Amid a palm grove and a sparkling blue pond, fed by the ancient Euphrates, 126 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines renewed their enlistment contracts. “Today we have the opportunity to keep some of America’s finest on our team,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Earl Rice, senior enlisted advisor to the deputy commanding general for ops. "These service members are the absolute best, and are committed to protecting America’s freedom as well as the people of Iraq," he said.

The majority of the Soldiers who reenlisted are from the XVIII Airborne Corps and the 82nd AD, both out of Fort Bragg, N.C., and the 1st Cal Div, Fort Hood, Texas. These Soldiers’ “dedicated service has played a key role in the accomplishment of our mission,” said Rice. "They've faced some very tough challenges throughout this year, and have been there every step of the way: conducting route clearance patrols, counter-IED patrols, training our partners - the ISF, transferring equipment and bases over to the ISF and the GoI. None of this would have been possible without the quality of service men and women that we have here.”

The contractual obligation that comes with reenlisting is serious business, affecting service members and their families. Many of those reenlisting today were first-term service members choosing to continue past their initial obligation. “These young people are starting to notice that the military is a life of service and sacrifice, but it's also a noble profession and they desire to serve, because they want to serve their country,” said Sgt. Maj. Mark Mayo, the USF-I command career counselor. “They understand their country is at war, and so they raise their right hand to stay on the team.

There are many benefits to reenlisting while deployed, including a lump sum, tax-free bonus. "The majority of these service members did receive a little extra bit of tax-free money, but more importantly – they got to keep their jobs," said Mayo.

All services have been charged with trimming their forces, and reenlisting is not as easy as it has been these last few years. “We had a personnel surge in 2007-08, adding more than 43,000 to the Army and now we have to taper those numbers off by next year,” said Mayo. “It's going to be a difficult time, as we are trying to shape the force, but it's also a great opportunity, giving us the chance to retain only the highest quality soldiers, raising the quality of the force.”

Sgt. Troy Sims was one of the Soldiers who reenlisted. “I reenlisted to take care of my family. There's nothing really out there in the civilian world,” he said. “The military has taken care of us these last few years, so I'm going to keep serving.”

Six of the service members were married – to each other. One of the couples who reenlisted was Cpl Sean and Spc. Kayla Revell, both of the 3rd Bde, 1st Cal Div. “This is definitely a huge thing for us,” he said. “This sort of thing doesn’t happen for many people, and the fact that we got to do it together, downrange, in an op like this - is kind of a big deal, and it'll be a memory that we'll have forever,” she said.

This will most likely be the last mass, joint reenlistment ceremony, as American forces are reducing their presence in Iraq, to meet the established end-of-year deadline. “No one knows what tomorrow will bring, but tonight Americans everywhere can sleep under a blanket of security, provided by those of you who reenlisted today,” said Lt. Gen. Frank Helmick, deputy comm. gen. for ops, USF-I. “So on behalf of America and Americans everywhere, who really have no idea of the significance of your decisions today; I thank you.”

Service members stand at attention during a joint re-enlistment ceremony.

Mechanics with 25th BSB, 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID, work to rig up and recover a tractor trailer from a mire pit, during the Vehicle Recovery Course at Kandahar, Sept. 28, 2011. The training is designed to challenge unit mechanics and prepare them for the upcoming winter conditions.

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD -- Combat vehicles oftentimes take a beating, whether it’s from IEDs or the rough and drastically varying terrain in Afghanistan. When a vehicle gets stuck or severely damaged, it becomes inoperable or “deadlined,” making it difficult to move off the battlefield. Soldiers deployed to Kandahar Airfield with the 1st Stryker BCT, the “Arctic Wolves”, recently honed their ability to tackle this issue, in an effort to prevent unnecessary loss of both personnel and vehicles.

“The Hotel 8 course is designed to provide recovery soldiers with the tools to perform combat recovery ops safely and efficiently,” said Lt. Col. John McMurray, cmdr. of 25th BSB. The course was offered to light and heavy-wheeled mechanics, and utilized both a classroom portion and a hands-on field exercise. The 3-day course encompassed more than 80 hours of training that focused on rigging, recovering and towing wheeled vehicles.

“The course allows soldiers to refresh on techniques that they may not use every day, while allowing them to learn new equipment,” said Pfc. Brandon Locke, an Ohio native, and mechanic. The field exercise was the highlight of the event, and it required soldiers to use their hands-on training to successfully recover a tractor trailer from a large ‘mire pit’, a pit filled with mud.

The dirt and water mixture mixed with heavy equipment proved to be a mechanics dream. “It was awesome to get out there and have a little bit of fun, while still doing some good ‘high-speed’ training,” Locke laughed. Locke said that although the course was enjoyable for most of the mechanics, it wasn’t all fun and games. He insists that the training and lessons learned were well earned, and at the end of the day will translate to mission success on the battlefield.

After successfully graduating the course, soldiers received an Army additional skill identifier known as H8. For mechanics obtaining the H8 identifier is a benchmark that very few reach, and for the ‘Arctic Wolf’ mechanics it makes a mark reached by only 24 mechanics throughout the more than 4,000-soldier bde.

“The course puts you above everybody else in your class,” Locke said. This was only the second time that the course was offered at KAF. Typically, deployed soldiers are forced to travel to Bagram, often times making the course an unreasonable solution to battlefield proficiency.

Lt. Col. John McMurray, cmdr. of 25th BSB, brought the program to KAF to increase awareness, efficiency and the overall survivability of both soldiers and vehicles in a combat environment. McMurray and the 25th BSB hope to make the course more frequently available, and continue to improve safety and survivability of each soldier and piece of equipment through similar training opportunities.

McMurray said, “As we go into the rainy season here in Afghanistan or as we call it here in the 25th BSB, ‘Stryker recovery season’, I'm confident that I have the best 24 H8 qualified recovery specialists on the battlefield.”

Mechanics work to rig up and recover a tractor trailer from a mire pit.

This is the highlight of the course!

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DVIDS

'Route Chicken' Opens Between Mizan, Qalat

By Sgt. Francis O’Brien

ZABUL – U.S. Soldiers joined Zabul Provincial Gov. Naseri, District Gov. Zareef, and almost 100 local elders for a ribbon cutting ceremony and shura in Mizan district, Sept. 29. In a joint op, 5 months in the planning, between U.S. and ANA called Op Fairbanks, the road was cleared of IEDs, repaired, redirected in places, and had several checkpoints constructed every 5 kms along its length from Sept. 17-21.

The road had previously been subject to Taliban attacks, and remained uncleared for military and civilian traffic for the past year. The newly constructed checkpoints will be manned by ANA soldiers on 9 month tours. “It’s a big deal to the people of Mizan that the CF have re-opened the road to Qalat,” said Zareef. “All the people of Mizan say thank you for the checkpoints and bringing security to us.”

The ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by Combined Team Zabul cmdr., Col. Blake Ortner of the Staunton-based 116th Virginia Army N.G. IBCT, who had spent the morning inspecting the checkpoints and meeting with ANA leaders. Ortner also had the opportunity to meet with Fort Wainwright-based Charlie Co, 1st Bn, 24th Inf Regt, 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID Soldiers, who were not only providing security for the event, but were the brains and brawn behind the success of Op Fairbanks.

“The importance is that for the first time in 2 years, we've implemented an enduring route that allows the people of Mizan unimpeded access to highway #1 and the capital, Qalat,” said Lt. Col. Jeff Stewart of the 1-24th. “It’s a huge success for our unit.”

The shura, originally planned to be held in the Mizan district center, was moved outdoors when the number of attendees far exceeded room capacity. Local elders sat in the shade of a large tree facing govt officials. Those Afghans who had a chair relinquished it to those older than themselves – often setting off a chain reaction as a chair was passed to increasingly older attendees. The shura lasted for 2 hours, followed by a lunch for govt officials and senior U.S., Afghan and Romanian Soldiers.

On the trip north from Qalat to Mizan along the last stretch of the road, a jingle truck carrying pomegranates got stuck in a ditch, and a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) was temporarily stuck in a deep patch of sand, nicknamed “moon dust” by U.S. Soldiers. "Just getting the last part of the road fully up to speed, was the hard part," said Capt. Jeremy Medaris, Charlie Co., 1-24th cmdr.

Capt. Gregory Benjamin, FOB Mizan cmdr., was singled out for special honors. Benjamin, of the Alaska-based 1st Bn, 24th Inf Regt, and his Soldiers have been expanding the range of security, held by the coalition in Mizan, which was crucial to the successful implementation of Op Fairbanks from Sept. 17-21.

“Opening Route Chicken was a wonderful opportunity to connect the good people of Mizan to the great people of Qalat,” said Benjamin, an Idaho native. Benjamin sat in a place of honor next to Naseri, at a special meal following a shura held with the local elders of Mizan, to celebrate the reopening of the road.

“Thank you for all you've done for the people of the Mizan valley,” said Naseri. “I'm very happy about the route being open, especially when the people stand up and say that they're happy as well.”

Flowers from a ribbon-cutting ceremony earlier in the day rested on the arm rest of the chairs between the two men, as a symbol of a fresh beginning for the coalition and the people of Mizan district.

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DVIDS

District Governor Reconnects to Puzeh Village

By Combined Joint Special Ops TF - Afghanistan

HELMAND – Sangin District Gov. Sharrif attended a shura, which included local village elders, district govt officials, and coalition Special Ops Forces (SOF) leaders in Puzeh village, Sept. 27. This was the district gov’s first visit to the area in more than 30 years, and the intent of his visit was to link the village and district security to one another, promote local governance, and foster economic development.

“In general, the people of Puzeh felt that the district govt did not acknowledge them,” said a SOF member. Sharrif wanted to demonstrate that the local govt is working for and with the people. His visit showed the villagers that he was monitoring Puzeh’s progress, and is working with local leaders to improve the quality of life.

In a speech, the district gov. emphasized the need for the people to actively participate in local security, and the Afghan Local Police (ALP) program. “The people have to first provide for their own security, and then more development will come to the area,” Sharrif said.

The event was an excellent opportunity for the local populace to engage their district govt officials, and allowed the people of Puzeh to voice some of their concerns on issues they see in the village. The shura was a positive step for building a relationship between the citizens of Puzeh and their local govt officials. This event also provided a forum for local leaders to encourage increased participation in the ALP program and local development projects.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Laghman PRT Visits local Orphanage

AF photos by Staff Sgt. Ryan Crane, Laghman PRT

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -- AF Capt. Deana Porter, physician asst., attached to the Laghman PRT, walks with a group of school children, while on a patrol in Mehtar Lam district, Oct. 8. The PRT visited with the social affairs committee to discuss building a second orphanage, to provide care to children who have lost their family.

AF Capt. Deana Porter speaks to the director of social affairs in Mehtar Lam district.

Army Sgt. 1st Class Brian Lancey of Conn., plt. sgt. attached to the Laghman PRT, hands out pens to Afghan children, while on a patrol in Mehtar Lam district.

A child imitates the ANA salute as members of the Laghman PRT walk by while on a patrol.

Army Staff Sgt. Jason Roberts, squad leader attached to the Laghman PRT, observes a busy street from a rooftop, while members of the PRT meet with locals in Mehtar Lam district.

A young boy tries to sell eggs to a few members of the Laghman PRT.

Army Sgt. Jon Reiff, team leader attached to the Laghman PRT, attempts to read a word an Afghan child has written on his hand.

HELMAND PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Musa Qal’ah district, Oct. 12. The leader places mines throughout the region, and uses military uniforms to conduct ambush attacks against Afghan forces.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor conducted an op in search of a Taliban leader in Kajaki district. The leader facilitates the distribution of explosives for use in insurgents attacks, and oversees the taxation of illegal narcotic sales throughout the region. Multiple suspected insurgents were detained during the op.

BAGHDAD — Closing JSS Deason was a difficult task that required several months of methodically-planned equipment and personnel movement, in order to maintain security and operational capability, while maintaining accountability of millions of dollars worth of govt property.

“We knew Co D was going to be the last company at the JSS from the very beginning,” said 1st Lt. James Brodhag, former EO with Co D, and a Pa. native. “This put us in the mindset of figuring out how to close it down for the end."

The initial planning and coordination began when the company first arrived in Dec., and culminated after the official transfer of custody of the installation occurred. Brodhag created an initial list of property to be turned over to the Iraqi govt. As the deployment wore on, many new items were added to the property transfer list, while other components were removed. In addition, timelines for property removal changed multiple times during the ten months prior to base closure.

“We were able to quantify our equipment reduction plan, and show how our prior planning worked during practical application,” said 1st Lt. Jonathon Chandler. “Through repetition we showed the proficiency of our Soldiers, and we eventually had a proofed equipment drawdown plan.”

Perhaps the most difficult portion of the planning, was figuring out just who from the 17th IA Div. was going to take responsibility for all of the equipment and buildings Co D was leaving behind. This meant guaranteeing that the 17th IA Div. supply officer could be available to properly inventory the entire property list, as well as sign all the related paperwork, both before the base closure, and again on the final day.

“The IA operates much differently than our Army,” said Capt. Michael McClain, cmdr. of Co D, and a Pa. native. “For us, we're deployed for a year straight, and are available the entire time except for our mid-tour leave.”

McClain added that coordination must take into account the different schedules of the two armies. “Significant coordination must be done to ensure that the IA officer, whose name appears on the paperwork, will be physically available to sign the associated documents,” he said. “Little things like this can cause the closure process to significantly de-rail.”

The difference in culture between the U.S. and Iraqi armies took some getting used to, but ultimately the inventories and official signing were completed. Co D Soldiers vacated the place they had called home for the past 10 months, and rejoined many of their Dragon Bn comrades at Victory Base Complex. The Soldiers of Co D have but one more move to prepare for—the one that will take back home to the U.S.

AF Maj. Marc Adair, of Colo., gives an Afghan boy a coat at an internally displaced people’s camp in Kabul, Oct. 7. A group of American and British service members from ISAF HQ traveled to the nearby camp to donate 2 truckloads of much needed clothes, shoes, blankets, hygiene kits and toys. When he was contacted by chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) in Arvada, Colo., and Broomfield, Colo., trying to find a way to help in Afghanistan, Adair and the ISAF HQ chaplain began to plan volunteer community relations mission to donate items to Afghans in need. Adair deployed to Afghanistan from the Pentagon to serve with the USF – Afghanistan Joint Visitors Bureau at ISAF HQ.

KABUL – The mission was the second of a series of volunteer community relations missions, coordinated through the ISAF Chaplain’s Office. The donations themselves, came from a variety of contributors across the U.S. and Great Britain.

“The folks here at ISAF are very generous, and this gives them an opportunity to actually go out there, experience the Afghan people, the Afghan nation, and have a hands on experience, where they hand off these donations to people they actually see have a real need,” said Garcia, a NY native deployed from the 77th Sust Bde, Fort Dix Army Reserve.

Expanding upon the initial generosity of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Adair reached out to family and friends in Denver, Houston, Arizona, Washington, D.C., and Virginia. “The donations are coming from more places than I ever thought they would. Two different dental clinics that really wanted to contribute, heard through the grape-vine we were doing this, and sent dental hygiene supplies,” Adair said.

For their part, British service members have reached out to their friends and families back home who've donated a variety of items, including hygiene kits that were given to children at a hospital, during the previous mission and to families at the IDP camp.

With the donations coming from good Samaritans overseas, the British and American troops found a good Samaritan inside Afghanistan, to help them coordinate the mission and work with the needy families.

Afghan citizen Abdul Wakil works with the charity org. Sozo International, and helps Garcia and the other volunteers find the locations in Kabul where Afghans most need their donations. He and 5 other Afghans he works with also help organize the donation process, so that the items go to those who most need them. Wakil’s generosity is, in no small part, driven by the connection he feels to the Afghan families at the camp.

“There are about 80 families that we will be able to help today,” Wakil said. “It makes me really happy that we were able to help these poor, internally displaced people, since I was raised in a refugee camp in Pakistan. I remember how we lived, and, now, with help from friends from the U.S., Great Britain and all over the world, I can help these people.”

These efforts did not go unnoticed and were greatly appreciated by Rogul, the camp elder who is displaced from Nangarhar prov., in eastern Afghanistan. “We're very glad to have the CF here, and we appreciate the clothes and all of the supplies,” Rogul said. “The children love the notebooks, crayons and toys, and the women need the clothes. The donations will help us a lot for the winter.”

This appreciation was expressed in the faces of many camp residents, despite the language barrier between themselves and the ISAF service members. “I enjoy being able to see the children’s faces light up, just because they are getting pink pencils,” Adair said. “Hearing them laugh and play with new school supplies is just awesome.”

For some of the troops, the mission offered both a change from their normal day-to-day jobs and a more well-rounded view of Afghan life. British Royal navy Capt. Jim Higham, of England, who serves with the strategic planning cell of ISAF HQ, normally helps to plan for ISAF engagements with key Afghan leaders, but, during this mission, he enjoyed passing out toys to the Afghan children. Higham and his wife regularly donate their children’s old toys to local charities in England, but rarely does he have the opportunity, like this one, to see the excited children who receive the toys.

“With the toys, invariably, someone smiles at you, and, if you exchange smiles, then all the cultural and language barriers seem to melt away. It’s a universal connection,” Higham said. Perhaps fellow ISAF service members will be greeted with similar smiles during the next volunteer community relations mission, when Garcia plans to go to an Afghan school.

“I think the missions give people at ISAF HQ a better perspective on everyday challenges that Afghans have, and an understanding of how important it is to help them, and to see them be able to build their country and build a nation,” said Adair, “because you can’t do it without the Afghans.”

British Royal navy Capt. Jim Higham smiles as he offers a toy to an Afghan mother and baby.

British Royal navy Capt. Higham offers a toy to an Afghan mother and baby.

CAMP BASTION -- The Marines of MWS Sqdn 371’s fuel div., are well acquainted with military aircraft. Not only do they fuel almost every Marine Corps aircraft on Camp Bastion, a major hub for aviation combat ops in SW Afghanistan, they also serve a major role in allowing those aircraft to reach the far corners of the region. "The Marines refuel thousands of aircraft each month," according to Staff Sgt. Tirrell Enoch, the sqdn’s fuel div. staff NCO-in-charge, and a native of N.C.

“This is one of the busiest fuel sites in Afghanistan,” said LCpl. Paul Rodriguez-Sanchez, a bulk fuel specialist, and a native of N.Y. The sqdn supports 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW) (Fwd), the aviation combat element for the RC-SW of NATO’s ISAF.

“A FARP is an oasis for fuel,” said Sgt. Jason O’Hearn, a motor transportation refueler, and a native of Ind. These refueling points, created when and where they’re needed, allow aircraft to stay in the air longer, providing extended support for ground forces. With the FARPs, pilots need not return to major bases, like Camp Bastion, when they run low on fuel or ordnance, while supporting a mission.

Refueling truck operators like O’Hearn, convoy to the various FARPs to keep them fresh with fuel. “There are aircraft constantly moving,” said O’Hearn. “With all the missions we support out there, we’re a big part of what drives them.”

LCpl. Vincent Jablonowski, a Marine Wing Support Sqdn 371 bulk fuel specialist, and a native of Nev., assists with the refueling of an MV-22B Osprey, with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Sqdn 162, on the runway of Camp Bastion, Oct. 3.

Capt. Richard Porter, a ground intel officer and instructor at the Joint Sustainment Academy SW (JSAS), teaches ANSF officers with the aid of an interpreter, during the Staff Planners’ course, Oct. 6. The course instructs ANSF senior officers how to properly plan and execute military ops, as well as coordinate missions between military and law enforcement agencies.

CAMP LEATHERNECK -- Afghan military officers and senior NCOs are attending the Staff Planners’ course Oct. 1 through 14. “We introduce the senior officers to basic military decision making and battle tracking,” said 1st Lt. Eric Phillips, an adviser/instructor team leader for ANSF at JSAS, and a Texas native. “We’re teaching them the principles of warfare, such as security and the basic orders process. Then we build on that with intel preparation of the battlefield. We then teach them military decision making and battle tracking, which brings it all together.”

Eighteen ANSF officers are attending the Staff Planners’ course. The students receive classroom instruction, as well as theoretical exercises to give them a firm understanding of the lessons. “We do all the fundamentals first,” said Phillips. “We try to give them a little of everything. We normally do lectures and follow that with practical application drills, where we let them do it for themselves.”

The ANSF officers in the class are thankful for the opportunity the class gives them to learn military strategy. “These lessons are very beneficial for us, because we learn how we can make our ops stronger, and plan for them more efficiently,” said Lt. Col. Rawof, an ANA officer in Helmand prov.

“The planning for missions in Helmand takes a lot of attention to detail,” said Capt. Richard Porter. “The primary goals are to make the Afghan cmdrs. understand the essentials of planning combat missions, and how to coordinate a response to an incident. They also learn how to coordinate between the different units, especially the police and the army, which is essential in a highly kinetic zone like Helmand prov.”

The instructors find teaching the high level officers both interesting and challenging. “There’s always something that can become an issue, but you learn to handle the situations respectfully,” said Phillips. “We’re teaching the upper echelon to use critical thinking and it’s a process.”

The ANSF officers and instructors are hopeful that the lessons learned will add to their effectiveness as leaders. “My personal goal is to get the experience here, so I can go to my unit, issue my orders among the ANA and instruct them, because we still need to work hard,” said Rawof. “Our young lieutenants and soldiers need instructions on how to be the best soldiers.”

“I think the students show promise,” said Porter. “Their attitude has been exceptional and they’re very dedicated. When the Marines leave, and the Afghans take over the SecFors here, it will be these students who are the ones that will coordinate the missions for the police and army, in some of the most dangerous areas in Afghanistan.”

ANSF officers participate in a classroom strategy exercise.

Maj. Gen. John Toolan visits with ANSF officers.

An instructor addresses a question from a student with the aid of an interpreter.

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DVIDS

Democracy in Action – Mizan Shura Resembles U.S. Town Halls

Story by Sgt. Francis O'Brien

ZABUL PROVINCE – The concerns were the same as you might find in an U.S. town hall meeting – law and order, jobs, education, health care and local projects – but the location was thousands of miles away – a shura in the Mizan district of Zabul prov., Sept. 29. Almost 100 local elders met with Zabul Provincial Gov. Naseri, District Gov. Zareef, and senior members of the govt., including the judiciary, police and military, to raise concerns and learn of plans for the future.

The shura opened with a prayer by Zareef, followed by questions and statements from the attendees, who sat on rugs underneath the shady branches of a large tree next to a quiet stream. U.S. and CF were present but only as witnesses, as the people of Zabul took their first hesitant steps towards participatory democracy within the GoA.

“There are people here from all the various villages,” said one elder, “and we're all waiting for security in the prov. It's the biggest issue. Nothing – education, sleeping, life – is worthwhile without security. Thanks to the checkpoints, Insha’Allah, we'll be getting education and schools soon," he added.

The checkpoints were recently built in the joint U.S.-ANA Op Fairbanks – a route clearing and security op, 5 months in the planning, to re-open Route Chicken, the main road between district and provincial capitals, Mizan and Qalat. Route Chicken had previously been subject to Taliban attacks, and remained uncleared for military and civilian traffic for the past year. Taliban gangs demanded bribes or use of their “taxi” service for any Afghan that wanted to use the road. Soldiers from the Fort Wainwright-based 1st Bn, 24th Inf Regt built the checkpoints every 5 kms – one per day -- from Sept. 17-21. ANA soldiers will man the checkpoints and provide security along the route.

Shura attendees also brought up issues regarding road improvements, irrigation, school construction, and local jobs. One elder’s comment was eerily similar in tone and type to complaints made by U.S. citizens. “We need a plan … 20% of the people here are out of work … The govt is supposed to be taking care of that.”

The response by Naseri was equally similar to that by any politician. “I’m very happy for the chance to speak to you, and also for your bringing your concerns to me,” he said. “It was good stuff to bring up. The most important thing is security for every Afghan family – peace in Afghanistan. Everyone is waiting for that day, and soon it will come.”

Naseri then challenged his audience. “The int'l. community is spending millions of dollars, and asking why is there no peace in this country. If you’re thirsty, you go to the river and drink. Peace is like that. It doesn’t just happen; you have to do something,” he added.

Naseri was most passionate on the most important issue to the attendees: security. “Do not invite the Taliban into your house! After you feed him, he's going to go out and kill our soldiers – your sons,” he said. “We need help from the people to stop the Taliban from planting IEDs. It shouldn’t be the responsibility of the coalition TFs, but of all people - all good Muslims.”

Naseri continued to hammer home the theme – similar to debates in the U.S. – that Islam means peace. “The whole world has seen that all Muslims are fighting – and that we call that Islam. This is what we need to ask our enemies: Why are you blowing up the roads? For what reason? They don’t let you go on the road. They forced people to plant IEDs. Is this Islam? If this continues, no one will care about us. Is this the way of Islam? Now that the Taliban can no longer fight us face-to-face … let’s get together and bring peace."

The shura continued for over another hour including fiery speeches, jokes and thoughtful remarks from govt officials and elders alike. Every issue – road improvements, education, health care – was ultimately tied to the security situation in Mizan district, which has been steadily improving. The attendees, govt officials and local elder alike, seemed pleased by the debate and the opportunity to actively participate in their govt. “When you guys stand here and challenge us, this is good; this is how govt is supposed to work,” said Naseri.

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IRAQI STORY:

Blackanthem Military News

'Vanguard' Battalion Soldiers help IA put Smiles on Children's Faces

Story and photos by Sgt. Daniel Stoutamire

An officer with the IA hands out girls' backpacks to a girl and her mother, during a humanitarian aid and school supply distribution, Sept. 20, 2011, at an elementary school near Camp Taji, just north of Baghdad. Soldiers with Co A, 1st "Vanguard" Bn, 2nd AAB, 1st ID, helped to provide perimeter security for the event.

BAGHDAD -- Proving that the desire for the latest and greatest in back-to-school fashion is not solely an American phenomenon, during the late summer months, Iraqi families came out by the dozen at 2 local schools to receive humanitarian assistance in the form of school supplies, notably backpacks.

Soldiers with Co A helped provide perimeter security for the school supply distribution, which occurred at the Sommer and Morocco Elementary Schools, and provided more than 450 backpacks, and 7 large boxes of miscellaneous school supplies to local children.

"The main idea behind the event was to let the civilian population see that the IA cares about their well-being, beyond simply their physical security," said Maj. Anthony George, a member of the Stability Transition Team (STT), attached to the Vanguard Bn, who works closely with the 9th IA Div. on a daily basis. "It also gives the IA the opportunity to interact with people in a different setting."

At both locations, the IA was warmly received. The gratitude of the recipients and their families was readily apparent, even as they waited in line. Among the most popular items were the 'Ben 10' backpacks, though it is unknown whether the boys who got them were true fans of the American cartoon series, about a boy with a magic watch, or just happy to have a brand-new backpack.

"In any event," George said, "the ability and initiative shown by the IA in orchestrating the event will have a lasting impact in the neighborhoods affected. "The actual backpacks will have a tangible, if minor, impact on these childrens' education," he said. "Seeing their army showing concern, and supporting their civilian activities, will have a positive effect on the relationship between the population and the IA."

An officer with the 9th IA Div., looks on as children stand in line.

Officers with the 9th speak with local children waiting in line.

Two girls inspect each others' new backpacks, as a Soldier with Co A, provides perimeter security.

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Luke Graziani Staff Sgt. Shannon Politte, a native of Louisiana, and material mgt. supervisor for Co A, 172nd Support Bn, 172nd Inf Bde, TF Blackhawk, tracks inbound and outbound flights at the flight line, Oct. 5, at FOB Sharana. Politte is constantly busy as the NCO-in-charge of the helicopter landing zone. The flight line is a 24/7 op, which is manned by Politte and her staff of 18 soldiers.
PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Being the only girl in a family of 9 brothers is challenging, to say the least. Having 2 parents who were both in the military adds to the challenge. She was a tom-boy, to the surprise of no one, with a very strong, independent personality. She was raised with firm military values, working for what she wanted and appreciating what she was given.

Her parents pushed her to seek greater things, and with their help she attended college, but decided to pursue a military career partway through. “I had to struggle and work hard for what I wanted,” she recalled. “My parents didn’t give a lot – we had to earn a lot.”“My dad was Air Force and my mom was Army,” she explained, and with 2 military parents, they emphasized, “duty and responsibility. It’s my duty to serve my country and do what I have to do.” Politte spent 3 years as a drill sgt. at Fort Jackson, S.C., before being assigned to Co A.

The time “on the trail,” instructing new recruits at basic training as a drill sgt, taught her not only about training and leading Soldiers, but also about who she was as a person and leader. “Being a drill sgt. – I loved it,” she recalls fondly. Being with the Soldiers from sun up to sun down, and instilling the Army values in Soldiers, helped her understand who she was inside, grow as a person, and develop as an NCO.

“I knew this was going to be a challenging role,” she said. “I have 3 sections in 1. I knew I had to stay on my toes.”
Pollitte said that with so much happening all the time, and with an area of op (AO) so spread out, it’s almost as if she has to be at multiple places at once. “I can’t be everywhere at one time, but I have to know all things that go on here at the HLZ.”

Managing stress is vital to maintaining not only her Soldiers’ mental health, but her own as well. Politte keeps a vigilant eye on her troops, but is able to take time to decompress herself by keeping in touch with her family. “I’m really family oriented,” she said. “I center myself around my family. I talk to them everyday or every other day. It makes my day much brighter. As long as I talk to them I’m happy.”

“It don’t matter if it’s clothes, food, or water,” she said. “It makes me feel good that I’m supplying the war. If we don’t supply them, how will they get it? Some of those places don’t have goat trails or roads to get there.” It’s not just mission essential items that Politte and her team push out to the units. Sometimes, when the moment arises, she's able to get comfort items to the Soldiers in the outposts that don’t have access to them. “Some of them don’t have hot meals”, she explains, and she has been able to ship out barbeque pits and coals so the Soldiers at the outposts can enjoy a little bit of home.

Politte will be eligible for Sgt. 1st Class soon, but her mind is focused on taking care of her Soldiers. “I push promotion,” she said. “I push that knowledge. Not just what they study out of the books, but what they know and what they display as a leader. I push my soldiers so they can become greater than me. I let them use me as a stepping stool to get to that next level. I push them hard.” As tough as she seems on the outside, it’s readily apparent that her heart is for her Soldiers. “I give all the credit to my Soldiers,” she said. “I feel that if my Soldiers are happy, I’m happy.”

Staff Sgt. Shannon Politte speaks with one of the many helicopter crewmen at the flight line.Politte takes a moment to check paperwork.-30-
RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Kapisa PRT Conducts Quality Assurance Mission, Women's Shura

Photos by AF Staff Sgt. Jason Huddleston, Kapisa PRT

KAPISA PROVINCE -- AF Master Sgt. Abner Ramos assigned to Kapisa PRT Civil Engr., from Calif., conducted a construction quality assurance mission, to inspect the progress of a security wall and provincial council center building, in the Mahmood Raqi District, Sept. 27. The Kapisa PRT focuses on governance and economic development in the prov.

Sgt. First Class Thomas Lancaster, an instructor for the Combined Team Zabul (CTZ) FET course, interacts with students during a practical exercise on managing interpreters.

ZABUL PROVINCE -- Members of Combined Team Zabul participated in a 5-day FET training course, that ended Oct. 1 with a mission to engage some of the local females in Qalat. The course was designed to strengthen each FET's effectiveness during key female engagements (KFE), in order to secure strong, lasting relationships that are vital to the success of counterinsurgency (COIN) ops.

"FETs are extremely important," said Capt. Iajaira Perez, a soldier from Texas, and the CTZ FET officer-in-charge. "Half the population of Afghanistan is female. FETs are designed to support the battle space owners, by facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the operational environment. They do this by gaining support and building the confidence of the female population to support the GoA. The FETs are able to reach out to places and people that no male could, to discuss issues of security, healthcare, education, justice, and economic opportunity."

Throughout the week, students received training in Afghan history, culture, religion and language. They were also instructed on how to conduct a proper body search, how to gather info, how to properly use interpreters, and how to maintain situational awareness.

"The best part of the training was the history of Afghanistan," said Cpl. Landon Sinclair, from Pa., a supply sgt. with the 59th Mobility Augmentation Co. "It's astonishing how a place can go from paradise to hell over the course of many years."

The course was well attended, and the students remained engaged throughout the whole week. Spc. Amber Desjadon, a soldier from Va., and the newest member of the CTZ FET, was eager to go through the course, and to make a difference in the lives of the local women.

"I was interested in seeing the other side of this culture - the side that we don't get to hear about much," said Desjadon. "I wanted to do something that I can see a benefit from, like trying to help somebody, where you can actually see a result, rather than just reading a screen."

Even though the course was about women engaging with women, it was open to everybody, and though they were reluctant at first, 2 males completed the training. "Maj. Wheeler told me to go," said Staff Sgt. Andrew Doane, from Va., the future-ops NCO-in-charge. "I plan on being an officer, and knowing how the FET is used will help in the long run, as far as understanding what they're capable of, so I can use them effectively in the future. I think more males need to be involved with the FET training, so that they all have an understanding, and they can all see what an important role they play in it," Doane added. "Men shouldn't be scared to be part of it."

Sinclair didn't volunteer for the class either. His 1st sgt. sent him to represent the 59th MAC. "I honestly didn't know what to expect about training," said Sinclair. "When you hear ‘female engagement', as a male you get very terrified, because the psychological minds of women are very complex. But, as a male, I'm glad I was volunteered for the class, because not only do the women play a big part, but the males as well."

Most males don't realize how important their role is in a FET. "It's important that they know the mission and capabilities of the FET, in order to have successful engagements, all while being culturally sensitive," said Perez.

Added to that responsibility is the security of each member of the FET. "FRTs are starting to be recognized by the Taliban, and they're starting to target them, because they know what they're doing, said Doane. Obviously it's a great thing, and they know this is something that will change the whole history here again. It may actually help defeat the Taliban."

Sgt. First Class Thomas Lancaster, leads a discussion on how to properly use an interpreter.

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Blackanthem Military News

A Place to Come Together

By Capt. Bonnie Hutchinson

ANSF have their first combined meeting in the new Pusht Rod District Ops Coordination Center (OCC-D), Sept. 29. The attendees of the meeting included personnel from National Directorate of Security, ANA, AUP, and ISAF Soldiers.

FARAH - Soldiers with Co D, 1st Bn, 67th AR Regt, attached to 2nd STB, 2nd BCT, 4th ID, helped open a new OCC-D. The coordination center is a central location for ANSF agencies to come together, in order to share and discuss info.
"The new OCC-D will ensure that the ANSF are better prepared to transition to a self-sufficient fighting force, capable of planning and executing their own missions," said Capt. Anthony Hoefler, cmdr. of Co D. "It will foster interagency cooperation, as select individuals from the district level (National Directorate of Security), (ANA), and (AUP) will be working together at one location, for their joint mission of independently providing safety and security in Afghanistan."

After the official opening, Soldiers from Co D participated in the first combined meeting at the new location. "All ANSF forces in attendance agreed that an effective battle rhythm was needed in order to streamline their ops," said Staff Sgt. Timothy Sensel, a Soldier with Co D. "Once the battle rhythm is established, they'll be able to effectively communicate with the OCC-D more effectively for op coordination and mission approval, which will allow for the continued success of the ANSF in the Pusht Rod district."

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 10, 2011

South

HELMAND PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition security patrol detained an insurgent during an op in Lashkar Gah district, yesterday. The insurgent is an IED facilitator responsible for IED attacks against ANSF and the GoA. The SecFor seized a pistol, 2 AK-47s, 1,000 AK-47 rounds, $6,000 U.S. dollars, and a quantity of communication devices.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition security patrol captured a Taliban leader and detained 2 additional suspected insurgents, during a security op in Kandahar district, yesterday. The leader manufactured homemade explosives for use in attacks throughout the region.

East

KAPISA PROVINCE -- In Tagab district, a combined Afghan and coalition security patrol discovered an IED cache today. The cache consisted of 2 vehicle borne IEDs which were safely destroyed by the SecFor.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Service Members Shadow Run Army Ten-Miler at Al Asad AB

Written by United States Forces - Iraq PAO

Runners participate in an early morning 10-mile run, Oct. 9., to shadow the 27th Army Ten-Miler race held in Washington, D.C. (Army photos by Sgt. Bianca Ayers/TF Dragon)AL ASAD AIR BASE – More than 700 runners assembled in the desert for a predawn 10-mile run. “The run was a huge success today,” said Rose McEachin, Al Asad’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation program supervisor. “We’ve done this many times in Iraq, but this is the first time we’ve had such a huge turnout - thanks to the support from the leadership here.” “It really is important to conduct events like this while deployed,” said 1st Sgt. Oscar Romine, 1st sgt., Ops Co, TF Dragon, XVIII Airborne Corps, and one of the event’s organizers. “It really helps to build espirt de corps, strengthen camaraderie, and remain physically fit in an operational environment.” For many runners, this wasn’t their first Army Ten-Miler, but it was certainly a big change doing it while deployed. “I’ve done the race in D.C. 7 times - it really is the thing to do in Oct.,” said Lt. Col. Mary Campbell, deputy secretary for joint staff ops, USF- Iraq. “The scenery here is definitely different. In Washington it’s nice to run by all the monuments, and have the large crowds. Here it's rather brown, and the crowds are smaller.”

The male overall winner was Capt. Curtis Persinger with the 940th MP Co., 149th MEB, who came in with a time of 59:49. The female overall winner was Capt. Laura Ahlert, with the USF-I military intel directorate, coming in with a time of 1:08:50. The team with the most people participating was HHB, XVIII Airborne Corps.

The Army Ten-Miler is an annual race put on by the Army’s Military District of Washington, and is the Army’s premier running event. Each year that it's run, service members in deployed locations participate in the race through shadow run events like this. Lt. Gen. Frank Helmick, deputy comm. gen. for ops, and other paratroopers from the XVIII Airborne Corps, based out of Fort Bragg, N.C., participate.Spc. David Peck and Staff Sgt. William Denegenhardt, both Soldiers serving with the USF-Iraq, run with their body armor. (Army photo by Sgt. A.M. Lavey/USF-I PAO) Sgt. Maj. Lamonta Caldwell, NCO-in-charge for the USF-Iraq deputy comm. gen. for ops command group, joins other Soldiers.Runners of all types (even a dog) participate. (Army photo by Sgt. A.M. Lavey)-30-

A student of the Balakino School performs a reading for the crowd gathered to celebrate the school’s opening day ceremony recently. There are more than 600 registered students at the Balakino School, a tremendous success for the area once ruled by insurgents who didn't allow schools.

MARJAH DISTRICT, Helmand province — The residents of Marjah celebrated at least 6 school openings in the past month. Govt reps, local residents, students and Marines with 3rd Bn, 6th Marine Regt, gathered on several occasions to commemorate opening day ceremonies at various locations.

Students from 5 to 17 years of age lined up for the opening ceremony of the Balakino School located in central Marjah. A number of GoA reps spoke to the crowd about the importance of security, education, and the future of Afghanistan, at this particular ceremony.

“Before, the people were under the pressure of the insurgency, so they would not come to school. Teachers couldn't do their jobs properly because of the insurgents,” said Muhammad Dawood, the headmaster of one of the recently opened schools. “It's very important that the CF are providing security; now the kids are coming to the schools.”

"Educational opportunities were not widely available in Marjah, under the negative insurgent influence formerly in the area," according to Dawood. He said that with the increased security, local residents are not scared to send there children to school now.

“A little over a year ago, this area was controlled by the insurgents, and none of these schools were open,” said 1st Lt. Joe Falvey, a Mich. native, and a plt. cmdr. with Kilo Co, 3/6. “It's only since ANSF personnel and the govt have gained influence here, that the schools have been reopened. It’s obviously having a really strong affect on the people, because 600 students are here at Balakino. There are 200, 300 and 400 at a lot of the other schools. There was zero when the insurgents were here.”

"Areas like Marjah have progressed to the point now where the govt is ready to run things, and ANSF is ready to provide security," added Falvey, who is Kilo Co’s GoA liaison. Falvey works with local govt reps to coordinate any Marine Corps assistance they need for development projects, like the school openings, within the company’s area of responsibility.

Headmasters in Marjah said they expect more students to begin attending schools, as ANSF expands its presence in the area. The schools that recently opened have seen an influx of eager students who are ready to learn. “We're teaching Pashto and Dari up to 3rd grade,” said Dawood, who has been an educator for 14 years. “In 6th grade, they will start learning Arabic, English and subjects like this.” Language is not the only curriculum taught in these Marjah schools. "There's a variety of subjects being offered to students, to include mathematics, chemistry and biology," according to Dawood.

Falvey said the new school openings in Kilo Co’s area will give more than 1,200 youngsters the opportunity to gain an education. Most of the schools in central Marjah are hard structure buildings, while other schools are held in temporary tent structures, until plans can be finalized to construct permanent buildings.

Local elders have been instrumental in the planning process of the school openings. They expressed the need for schools in the area, and have worked with headmasters to ensure student registration. Local ANSF leaders are large contributors in this process also, ensuring that the elders and headmasters are working through the govt.

“The goal of GoA is to get schools to work with the ministry of education. The ministry of education is able to pay the teachers, provide supplies, and standardize the curriculum,” said Falvey, a 2009 graduate of the University of Notre Dame in Indiana. “The headmasters are working to improve their schools, and the key to that is working with the ministry of education.”

"Elders in other areas are interested in starting new schools as well, and GoA plans to open several more schools within the area in the near future," according to Falvey.

Abdul Bari, the headmaster of the Balakino School, speaks during the opening day ceremony of the refurbished school.

Students of the Balakino School give a speaker a round of applause.

Staff Sgt. Zachary Rubart, a Pa. native, and a plt. sgt. with Kilo Co, spikes a volleyball to score while playing a friendly game at the opening day ceremonies of the Balakino School.

An Afghan boy enjoys the playground of his new school.

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DVIDS

Virginia Native Dies Three Times, Returns to Marjah

Story and photo by Sgt. Earnest Barnes

LCpl. Matthew Earle, a Va. native, and an assaultman with India Co, 3rd Bn, 6th Marine Regt, returned to Marjah just shy of a year after he was medically evacuated with 2 punctured lungs and a chipped vertebra, injuries he sustained during an insurgent ambush in Marjah, in 2010.

MARJAH DISTRICT, Helmand province — Some Marines involved in the battle for Marjah in 2010 say that they stared death in the face. One Marine involved in the intense fighting, not only stared death in the face, but shook its hand as well. LCpl. Matthew Earle was critically wounded, while conducting counterinsurgency (COIN) ops in 2010, but lived to tell the story. Now he's back in Marjah, setting the example for his Marines.

Earle’s squad was conducting a patrol to assess how local residents felt about the insurgency and the coalition troops tasked with liberating the city of Marjah. His squad stopped at a local mosque to speak to an elder, when 2 men drove up on motorcycles and brought the Marines a warning. They said insurgents were planning to ambush the Marines from multiple directions as soon as they left the mosque. The Marines heeded the warning, and decided to wait until dusk to leave; they hoped the enemy wouldn’t attack as valuable sunlight faded.

Earle’s squad stepped off to head back to the patrol base nearby, when their worst fears became a reality. The insurgents opened fired on the Marines from 2 directions, shooting rifles and machine guns. Earle said that he was running toward the side of the road and reaching for his rocket system, which was his primary weapon as an assaultman. He was shot with a 7.62 caliber round as he was reaching for his weapon system.

Earle said if he wasn’t reaching back at that moment, the round would have struck him in the arm, but instead the round punctured his right lung, collapsed his left lung, and chipped a vertebra before exiting through his back. “Last thing I remember was a big firefight,” said Earle. “There's a 6-day window I can't remember, except for bits and pieces.”

The Marines and sailors on scene filled Earle in on the details. Petty Officer 3rd Class Matthew Dishmon, a Tenn. native, and a corpsman with 3/6, was with Earle on that unforgettable day. Dishmon, who was directly in front of Earle on the patrol, said that he was the only one to see Earle go down.

“Doc” Dishmon, as he is known by his fellow service members, said he yelled, “Earle’s hit!” None of the other members of the squad could hear him over the machine gun fire, and it was at that instant that he made the decision to go back into the line of fire to rescue his friend.

“I ran to get him out of the middle of the road,” said Dishmon, as he recalled the scene. “I grabbed him, pulled him off to the side, and began working on him.” Dishmon asked Earle where he was shot; Earle was only able to mumble one word, “back.” Dishmon took off the wounded Marine’s personal protect equipment, and started tending to his wounds. The corpsman said he placed an occlusive dressing over the entrance and exit holes the bullet made to stop Earle’s sucking chest wound. Unaware that both of Earle’s lungs were damaged, Dishmon quickly realized the situation was much worse than he originally assessed.

“I noticed his chest was unequal. I gave him a needle thoracentesis, (also known as needle decompression),” said Dishmon, referring to a procedure to relieve the pressure building in Earle’s chest. “He had 2 punctured lungs; that is why it filled up so fast.”

The battle stopped as the sun edged over the horizon, but for Earle, the fight for his life was far from over. The Marines assisting Dishmon called their command to request a helicopter for a medical evacuation. As Earle lost blood, and began to loose consciousness, Dishmon and the Marines assisting him never lost hope.

“From what I’ve gathered, I died twice on the ground and once in the air,” explained Earle. “At one time I guess my status was changed from ‘urgent’ to ‘routine killed in action.’” Once they got Earle to the hospital, the doctors were able to stabilize him and address his injuries. Earle said he attributes his survival to the quick actions of Doc Dishmon, and believes that one wrong decision made by Dishmon could have meant Earle’s death.

“They said I had about a minute 30 left to live by their estimation, when I got to the hospital,” said Earle, who is expecting his first child soon. “That minute and 30 seconds could have been Doc deciding what to do, or waiting for a break in the fire.”

Earle was released for full duty shortly before his current deployment, but he said it was important to him to come back to Marjah. Now serving as a squad leader with the same company, Earle said he realized he could use his near-death experience to teach the young Marines under his charge. He said he ultimately came back to Marjah for his Marines, and to show them one person can make a difference.

“A lot of people say one person can’t make a difference, but especially in the infantry, one person can literally mean the life or death of people,” said Earle. “Dishmon is a testament to that. If he hadn’t gone out on that patrol, I wouldn’t be here.”

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DVIDS

Battle-tested former Army Rangers visit 1st ACB troopers

Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Joe Armas

Keni Thomas, a country music artist who is a former Army Ranger, who was part of the battle of Mogadishu in Somalia in 1993, plays his single, "Another Mexico Song."

CAMP MARMAL – The Ranger Tour, comprised of 4 former Army Rangers, touched down in northern Afghanistan to visit soldiers of the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cav Div, Oct. 4-5. The tour was the first of American 300’s Warrior Tours that highlights profiles in extreme courage.

Whether it was enduring a 500-foot combat jump onto the small island of Grenada, patrolling the jungles of Vietnam, or navigating the streets of battle-ravaged Mogadishu, Danny McKnight, Keni Thomas, Max Mullen and Charlie Manis have experiences that few others can account for.

This was a chance for the Rangers to visit Afghanistan, and see firsthand what soldiers of this current generation are experiencing. “One of the greatest privileges I could ever have is to visit these soldiers over here, to tell them thanks for everything that they do for us back in the U.S.,” said McKnight.

McKnight was a convoy cmdr. on Oct. 3, 1993, in Somalia during the battle of Mogadishu. He was portrayed by a character in the movie “Black Hawk Down.”

Thomas was involved as well in that battle, fast-roping from a UH-60 Black Hawk into the streets of Mogadishu. Since then, he has become a county music artist, and often goes overseas to sing for and interact with the troops. This occasion was no different for Thomas, who varied his musical set with a song that rendered a somber tone, and then followed that up with one of his more lively singles, “Another Mexico Song,” that brought laughter and a plethora of applause from the 1st ACB troopers.

Thomas touched on his interaction with the troops afterward. “It never fails,” said Thomas. “The conversations I have with soldiers in combat zones always are the same. Within 3 to 5 minutes, they start talking about their fellow brothers in arms over here … It’s never about them.”

Thomas added, “as someone who used to wear the uniform, I understand how much this means to the soldiers to have someone come over here and talk to them.” Thomas, along with the rest of the Rangers, has a busy schedule back in the states, and that was a fact that didn't go unnoticed by the soldiers who they visited.

“The fact that they recognize what we're doing over here … that they would stop their busy lives to come and show their appreciation … It means a lot to me,” said Spc. Janice Gonzales, a signal support systems specialist, assigned to Co C, 615th Aviation Support Bn, 1st Air Cav Bde, 1st Cav Div, originally from Texas.

The dates of the tour coincided with the anniversary of the battle of Mogadishu. As he tried to contain his emotions, McKnight talked about the importance of spending the anniversary with deployed soldiers for the first time. “Eighteen years ago, I was fighting in the streets of Mogadishu, and to be able to spend this anniversary with soldiers here in Afghanistan … It’s really special for me.”

Throughout the tour, as they interacted with soldiers, McKnight, Mullen and Thomas often referenced their fellow comrades, who made the ultimate sacrifice during their tenures in the Army. Thomas added, “I’ve lost friends in combat, and I owe it to them to tell their stories.”

An event held at one of the 1st ACB hangars was staged as a town hall, where the Rangers sat at a table in front of the audience, and talked about their experiences. That setup quickly disbanded though, as the Rangers relished the opportunity to have close interaction with the soldiers. Gonzales added, “It was really cool to hear firsthand about their experiences, and see how they've grown from them,” she said.

Finally, McKnight talked about how impressed he was with the soldiers he encountered during his visit, and said he would pass that message back to everyone in the U.S. “When I return home, I’ll be able to tell everyone about the professional demeanor, and hard work ethic of the soldiers I had the privilege to spend time with,” said McKnight.

'Mad Max' Mullen, a former Army Ranger and veteran of the U.S. led invasion of Grenada in 1983, presents a coin to Sgt. 1st Class Misty Cady, a soldier assigned to HC, 1st ACB, Oct. 4.

Keni Thomas, a former Army Ranger who was part of the battle of Mogadishu in Somalia in 1993, listens in as a soldier from TF Lobos, 1st ACB, explains the intricacies of an AH-64D Apache attack helicopter.

Retired Col. Danny McKnight, a former Army Ranger who was a ground convoy cmdr. during the battle of Mogadishu in Somalia in 1993, gives the thumbs up, as a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter from the 1st ACB takes off during his visit to the soldiers of the 1st ACB.

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DVIDS

Afghan Police, Soldiers Receive First-Response Medical Training

By Sgt. Thomas Duval

KANDAHAR – For those involved in serious vehicle accidents, a first response medical team may be all that stands between life and death. The training that first-responders receive, enable them to provide quick, life saving care, until accident victims are taken to a hospital.

Members of the AUP used this training to save lives recently, as a few officers showed proof of increased community and public safety, when they arrived at the scene of a vehicle collision, assessed the casualties and evacuated them to a higher echelon of care.

For the people of Panjwa’i district in southern Kandahar, the success of the AUP as first responders is a historical benchmark reached only through continuous hard work and training. In recent years, the ability to assess, react and recover injured Afghan civilians has been nonexistent, making the success of the AUP even more important to the people of Panjwa’i. The incident on Sep. 30, proved to be a huge success as the AUP were able to save the lives of an adult female and a child.

The AUP have been training side by side with ISAF, and the ANA to improve their medical proficiency. Beginning Sept. 27th, Afghan medical professionals with ANA’s medical company, have taken the reigns from their ISAF counterparts, during a combat life savers course.

During the course the ANA medical staff successfully taught a group of 12 Afghan soldiers how to administer IV fluids to a number of patients. The Afghan soldiers hope that by the end of the month all ANA Soldiers with the 5/1/205th will be proficient in basic combat life saver skills, like using the tourniquet, administering IV’s and preventing shock.

The course is another successful chapter added to Afghanistan’s history books, as the ANA and the ANP continue to take over more responsibilities from their U.S. partners. Together the AUP, ANA and ISAF hope that through a continued partnership, and more advanced medical training, the success of that Sept. day will become the standard in Panjwa’i.

Wyo. native, Capt. Carl Danko, cmdr. of Co C, 'Crazyhorse,' 2nd Bn, 5th Cav Regt, 1st Bde, 1st Cav Div, gives a package of school supplies to a student attending the Tunis Primary School, Oct. 3. Soldiers assigned to the Lancer Bn., helped distribute school supplies with the IP to strengthen the bond between the ISF and the Iraqi populace, before U.S. forces permanently leave Iraq at the year's end.

TUNIS – Late the morning of Oct. 3, Co C soldiers of the Lancer Bn, pulled up to the Tunis IP Station, and linked up with the IP before visiting the students of Tunis Primary School next door. “It was more than what was needed, but it will help resupply them throughout the school year as well,” Danko said. “The faculty and staff were very appreciative of our gifts.”

There were enough supplies for about 1,200 students. While this wasn’t the first time U.S. soldiers have provided the Tunis School District with school supplies, it was the first set of supplies since the beginning of the school year, which began the week before.

“The supplies were great,” said the Principle of the Tunis Primary School. “The children and families are very grateful for everything these soldiers have done for us.” The supplies were provided by an org., known as People to People: Op Int'l. Children, founded in early 2004. The org. is committed to their work in Iraq, and has expanded its mission in sending school supplies to Afghanistan, and other nations, where American troops are distributing them to children in need.

“Every time a box of school supplies is delivered by our troops, it will be another small victory for them in helping win hearts and minds,” said Gary Sinise, founder of Op Int'l. Children. “It's a beautiful way to begin a relationship with the future leaders of Iraq, Afghanistan, and other war-torn nations.” Each student received a packet with 2 notebooks, pocket-folders, pens, pencils, and a pencil case. Several students also received a backpack and a blanket.

Crazyhorse plans on returning to the surrounding villages to drop off food, blankets and similar supplies to the families.

Maj. Gen. John Toolan, the comm. gen. of RC-SW and Maj. Gen. Glenn Walters, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd), comm. gen., stand among the leadership of the ANA at a dinner for coalition leaders at Camp Leatherneck, Sept. 28. U.S. Marines, British forces and Afghan soldiers have fought and worked together to quell the insurgency. (Photo by Staff Sgt. James Richardson)

CAMP LEATHERNECK -- With tables set and food prepared, officers from 3 nations gathered together under a single tent on 2nd MAW (Fwd)’s compound. During the dinner, leaders from the ANA, British forces and the U.S. Marine Corps gathered around a few tables for a hearty meal, and to reflect on their service together in Afghanistan.

“The event was very good for our relationship with our allies,” said ANA Brig. Gen. Parwani, the deputy comm. gen. of the Afghan army’s 215th Corps. “We're very happy to celebrate our coalition, and the successes we've shared.”

Marines and British forces fight side-by-side with Afghan troops in SW Afghanistan. The CF also offer aerial support, military training and mentorship to the Afghan military, boosting its proficiency in fighting the insurgency here.

Col. Ben Hancock, the assistant wing cmdr. of 2nd MAW (Fwd), said, "Afghan troops have shown their strength in military training and ops. The dinner highlights the importance of building camaraderie."

"The Marines and British troops served as hosts," explained Col. Peter Eadie, the cmdr. of TF Jaguar, the British aviation element of the NATO ISAF in SW Afghanistan. “Our relationship with our Afghan peers is very strong,” said Eadie. “It was made evident in the short speech given by Brig. Gen. Parwani during the festivities.”

“The event to us felt like a celebration of our established friendship and growth,” said Parwani. “Due to everyone’s hard work we constantly see security improvements toward a more stable Afghanistan.”

Eadie said he, "felt inspired to see how much the Afghan troops appreciate the efforts of the coalition to help them keep Afghanistan secure.

“Tonight is about the collective sacrifice of our nations, and to pay tribute to all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice,” 2nd Lt. Jay Glover said, the most junior officer present at the event.

Spread throughout the tables were 60 ID tags looped around flickering candles. Each tag bore the name of a fallen coalition troop who had given his life in Afghanistan. “The underlying theme for the evening was everyone celebrating working together, and the strength of our partnership despite our losses,” said Eadie.

“We spent a lot of time planning and preparing this event, to share our traditions with our Afghan allies,” said Hancock. “I feel that the hope is to teach the Afghans the importance of both building troop appreciation and remembering those lost.”

Brig. Gen. Parwani speaks during a dinner for coalition leaders, of hope, and thanks for the efforts of their Marine and British allies, and the work they've done to stabilize the region.

ANA Brig. Gen. Parwani and Maj. Gen. Glenn Walters look at some of the gifts given.

Marine Corps Sgt. Eric Rader and his sister AF Staff Sgt. Rebecca McHenry, serve together at Camp Leatherneck. Rader and McHenry were raised in a military family, and have learned to rely on each other through tough times, including their current deployment. Rader is the 2nd MAW (Fwd) air chief, and McHenry is an aeromedical evacuation specialist with the 651st Expeditionary Aeromedical Evacuation Sqdn (EAES).

CAMP LEATHERNECK -- “We always had each other,” said Eric Rader, who deployed to Afghanistan in Feb. Eric’s sister Rebecca arrived in Afghanistan in Sept. The siblings said they’ve had a lot to catch up on – including Rebecca’s wedding. “We both have our own families now,” said Rader. “We'll definitely spend more time together when we get back home.”

Rebecca's squadron flies injured troops out of Afghanistan, when the medical care they need is greater than military hospitals here can provide. “I love being able to help those who need it most, and keep brave troops alive,” said McHenry.

“There's a great sense of pride in knowing that my sister helps my fellow Marines and other troops get back on their feet, and home to their loved ones,” said Rader.

Rader is deployed from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C. He serves with the HQ of the air combat element for NATO’s ISAF RC-SW, and helps units rotating in and out of Afghanistan.

“I'm very proud of my brother for being a Marine,” said McHenry. “I like knowing that he does a great job." Despite the rigors of a deployment to Afghanistan, Rader and McHenry said they find time to speak about their lives and families back home almost every day.

“My sister is always sitting at the dining facility waiting for me at lunch,” said Rader. “It makes the time go by faster, having something to look forward to almost every day.”

“He used to pick on me sometimes,” said McHenry of her brother. “Since being out here, he has only been protective. The perfect gentlemen.”

Eric and Rebecca have learned to rely on each other through tough times, including their current deployment.

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD -- The temps in Afghanistan are cooling, but the Marines are losing no steam, as they continue to support NATO ISAF Ops from Kandahar Airfield. Since May, the Marines have been working 24 hours a day in conditions far from comfortable. Temps had turned the working environment into an oven. An intense flight schedule has kept the Marines on their toes for as long as they’ve been in country.

“Each shop has its own specific job to make sure each and every system performs at maximum, to send the safest aircraft out with that pilot to a sortie,” explained Cpl. Brandon Jones, an MAS 513 airframes mechanic, and Ala. native.

The “Flying Nightmares” of MAS 513 are part of 2nd MAW (Fwd), the aviation combat element in support of NATO ops in SW Afghanistan. The Marine Corps uses the vertical take-off and short-landing capabilities of the AV-8B Harrier attack jet, to provide close-air support to Marine infantrymen, and other CF on the ground.

“If there’s anything I can do to protect them, I will,” said Staff Sgt. James Seigfried, the Harrier sqdn’s avionics NCO-in-charge, and a Calif. native. Throughout their 4 months in Afghanistan, the Harrier sqdn has racked up hundreds of flight hours and dropped dozens of bombs. Yet, even with the prospect of home only a few months away, the Marines haven’t forgotten their mission.

“It feels pretty good knowing Marines’ lives are in our hands, and knowing that everyone is doing the best they can to support them,” said Cpl. Michael Prince, an MAS 513 powerline mechanic, and Mich. native.

“This deployment has given me a sense of self-satisfaction, and a ridiculous amount of self-confidence,” said Cpl. Michael Garetz.

FOB SHINDAND -- Whenever a unit deploys, milestones are achieved as they execute their mission, and stories are often written about units reaching these milestones. For most units, pumping over one million gallons of fuel on a year-long deployment is a common occurrence. However there's nothing common about TF Spearhead, and their pumping more than one million gallons of fuel in less than 4 months of being deployed.

"One reason why TF Spearhead’s numbers are so high, is that they're servicing coalition members and civilian contractors, as well as our traditional military customers," said Lt. Col. Blake Alexander, a native of Texas, and cmdr., TF Spearhead.

Staff Sgt. Patrick Sayles, the NCO-in-charge of the Forward Arming and Refueling Point (FARP), was one of the fuelers present when the millionth gallon of fuel was pumped. “We’ve safely pumped the million gallons between everyone; everything is running smoothly out here,” said Sayles. “What else can you ask for?”

"In the end, the success of the TF is due to the efforts of the soldiers," said Alexander. “Hitting this benchmark so early is really a testament to how much hard work, effort, and dedication the soldiers are putting into the mission,” said Alexander. “Overall, they're doing an outstanding job.”

Spc. Curtis Bennett spools out the fuel line of a M978 Fuel Resupply Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck as, he prepares to re-fuel a Canadian contracted helicopter, Oct. 1.

Spc. Curtis Bennett looks back at Sgt. Misty Cravens, a native of Texas, also a petroleum supply specialist, while they re-fuel a Canadian contracted helicopter.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 9, 2011

North

KUNDUZ PROVINCE -- In Kunduz district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader during an op. The leader is a roadside bomb expert, and is responsible for providing explosives used in attacks against Afghan forces and local nationals. The SecFor also seized bomb-making material.

----- In Kajaki district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents during an op in search of a Taliban leader. The leader coordinates roadside bomb attacks, and reports to senior-level leaders on the outcome of attacks in the region, as well as provides weapons and guidance to insurgent fighters in the area.

East

LOGAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in Muhammad Aghah district. The facilitator plans car bomb attacks in the Muhammad Aghah, Logar and Kabul districts. The SecFor seized an RPG launcher and ammo.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader and killed an insurgent during a security op in Achin district. The leader facilitated the movement of explosives and weapons from Pakistan to Afghanistan. Multiple additional suspected insurgents were also detained during the op.

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- In Gelan district, yesterday, a combined Afghan and coalition patrol detained numerous insurgents during an op. The insurgents are suspected of being part of a network responsible for multiple attacks on Afghan and CF.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- In Zurmat district, a combined Afghan and SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader. The leader manages insurgent activity and acquires weapons for use in attacks against Afghan forces in the Zurmat district.

JOINT BASE BALAD – While on mission, soldiers constantly update their HQ as events take place. Cmdrs., planners and support soldiers rely on radio, phone and Internet networks to receive these updates and respond to them, ensuring that they're able to advise and assist soldiers on the ground.

The 2nd AAB, “Black Jack,” relies heavily on it’s communications shop—known as S6—to keep networks up, radios operating and phones ringing, so that info is never more than a phone call away.

"All the info we get from troops on the ground, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), helicopters, and fixed wing aircraft comes to us over the communication networks that are set up by the S6 at the brigade tactical ops center," said the Black Jack Bde’s chief of ops, Maj. Thomas Jones, a Texas native.

No matter how far soldiers are from their HQ, S6 personnel ensure that soldiers can always communicate back to it. “We maintain tactical communication across the battlefield,” said Spc. Jared Berman, signal support systems specialist with the Black Jack Bde. Berman’s specific job is to maintain and repair radio systems that allow for communications between vehicles on mission, and the bde. HQ.

"From tactical communications in the field, to communications security at the HQ, to Internet and phones in offices, all of it goes through S6," said Master Sgt. Stephen Peterson, a Kan. native, and the brigade S6 NCO-in-charge. “We're the backbone of the entire daily ops of the bde.”

Peterson said that at one point his S6 shop was running ops at 3 different locations, as the Black Jack Bde prepared to leave COB Warhorse for Joint Base Balad, with S6 personnel operating at both bases. The 3rd group was setting up communications networks in Kuwait for the bde’s eventual move there.

Even as Black Jack soldiers continue to transition bases, and move around Iraq and Kuwait, the S6 shop ensures that communications are reliable between units, and that cmdrs. can give guidance with just a phone call.

Cpl. Keisha Yates (left), a Mo. native and the automations help desk NCO-in-charge, checks a computer for errors, as Spc. Leticia Hayes, a Texas native and the command group administrative asst. for the Black Jack Bde, watches, Sept. 25, 2011.

Local Afghan children hold up flyers advertising the Guardians of Peace program. Distributed flyers are one of many methods used to spread the word about the program, which encourages the people of Afghanistan to call into hotlines to anonymously report any insurgent activity they witness. (AF photo by 1st Lt. Cammie Quinn)

PAKTYA PROVINCE --The GoA, its citizens, and CF are working side-by-side to improve security in Paktya Prov., as evidenced by the continued success of the Guardians of Peace program. One such tip recently resulted in the recovery of a weapons cache of hand grenades, explosives, flares, detonators, grenade fuses and ammo.

“This program is a lot like the neighborhood watch program in the states, except we're in a war zone,” said AF 1st Lt. Eric Ozburn, Paktya PRT info ops officer, from Calif. “Tips that pan out and are useful to ANSF or CF are eligible for a reward,” said Ozburn. “A lot of times these rewards are just a bonus to the people who call in, and not a driving factor.”

“A huge part of my job is just getting awareness of the program to the people,” said Ozburn. “Face-to-face is often the most effective, because I see the immediate acceptance of the initiative in their faces. It’s a great feeling.”

“Attacks happen and will continue to happen. It does not mean we aren't ready to counter attack. We have better equipment and more capacity,” said Brig. Gen. Azimi, Afghan Ministry of Defense spokesperson. “We've lots of professional officers and cmdrs. We're all ready to repel the attacks of the insurgents, and beat them down.”

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Indiana ADT Medics Visit Orphans in Khowst

Written by Army Sgt. Kaitlyn Ashby, 4-19th Indiana ADT

Sgt. Dessislava Pashova, a medic from Ind., of the 4-19th Indiana ADT, treated medical conditions of more than 50 girls, during an orphanage visit, Oct. 1. The ADT will be working in Khowst Prov., and plans to conduct more Afghan led missions such as these, throughout the next year. (Photo by AF Senior Airman Sandra Welch)

During the visit, U.S. servicemembers worked with Khavar Amiri, the Khowst Director of Woman’s Affairs (DoWA), as well as local doctors and staff to check vitals, distribute supplies to the orphans, and put some faith back into the community. Medical and school supplies, stuffed animals, hygiene products, clothes and hats sent from the U.S. were distributed to the children by medical staff and teachers.

The primary female provider during the mission, Staff Sgt. Cory Hasik, an ADT medic from Ind., took vitals from the girls at the orphanage and provided vitamins and cough syrup. “It seemed like a great opportunity to help,” said Hasik. “With so many under-privileged children, it’s understandable them wanting so much, because they have nothing.”

Sgt. 1st Class Trixie Coffman, a personnel and administration facilitator with the ADT, from Ind., demonstrated personal hygiene to the girls, during her distribution of hygiene products during the visit. “I was very excited to see the kids because our children back in the U.S. don’t want for anything,” Coffman said. “Being able to give back to the kids was real important to me.”

While on the mission, Sgt. Dessislava Pashova assessed and treated medical conditions of more than 50 girls, and commented on her experience at the orphanage. “I was excited to have a medically focused mission,” she said. “You get to help out, and actually see that you’re making a difference.”

The op, which started Sept. 25, initially began when Afghan security and CF Soldiers discovered a cache of homemade explosive material at a compound, and also detained the men occupying the compound. One of the detainees is a known Taliban leader, and also a direct subordinate to another Taliban leader responsible for insurgent ops in eastern Zharay district. Afghan soldiers also found several "night letters" distributed to houses in Kandalay, denouncing villagers who joined the local community-based security org. The soldiers immediately started distributing letters to counteract those distributed by insurgents.

Night letters are letters distributed by insurgents, usually under the cover of darkness, to intimidate a local population from assisting or working with Afghan security or CF.

The next day, village leaders and elders from Kandalay held an emergency shura to discuss the community-based security program. Also, Soldiers from CTF Spartan's 2nd Bn, 87th Inf Regt, scheduled an education shura with the headmaster of the Pir Mohammad School, and other key influencers from Kandalay and Senjaray. Part of the op's success was due to Recon Soldiers from 2-87 who were placed in key positions in eastern Zharay district. The team engaged several insurgents with mortars and TOW missiles, killing at least 5 insurgents.

On day 3 of the op, the joint element cleared enemy compounds in the neighboring village of Kalacha, and found a homemade explosives lab, and several small weapons caches. Local officials recognizing the improved security due to ongoing ops, officially opened a school in Habib in Zharay district, where 30 schoolchildren attended on the first day of school.

On the last day, Afghan security and CF Soldiers breached and cleared into known enemy bed-down locations, as well as interdicting a cache consisting of 150-lbs of homemade explosive material, 2 complete pressure-plate IEDs, 500-lbs of hashish, and 2 82mm recoilless rifle rounds.

When the joint element tallied the results from the 96-hour long op, the net total was 2 complete pressure-plate IEDs, 9 hand grenade fuses and grenades, hundreds of rounds of ammo, several expended large shell casings, 2 82mm recoilless rifle rounds, 5 jugs of homemade explosive material, and a British Enfield Mark 4 rifle.

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DVIDS

Public Affairs Personnel Partake in Three-Day Seminar

Story by Master Sgt. Paul Hughes

KANDAHAR -- While destroying enemy weapons caches and eliminating insurgents are vital to achieving victory inAfghanistan, so is gaining and maintaining the support of the Afghan people. “The best way to increase public support is through effective publicaffairs (PA) ops that gain the trust of the Afghan people is by communicating the effectiveness of the ANA to protect their people,” said AF Maj. Kallie Quinn, officer-in-charge of the Mobile PublicAffairs Training Team (MPATT) at FOB Lindsey in Kandahar.

Qu inn leads a 3-person team that spends every day working to trainpublicaffairs reps from the ANA’s 205th Corps. “If the Afghan people can see the positive things the ANA are accomplishing, they'll support them, and make the inevitable transition process much easier,” said AF Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey Wolfe, MPATT photojournalist.

Qu inn and her team spend most of their time training ANA publicaffairs Soldiers at the corps level, but saw a need for training that focused on laying a foundation for publicaffairs knowledge at the brigade level. So, they designed, organized and scheduled a 3-day seminar, focused on info gathering and visual storytelling.

“This sem inar laid the foundation for an effective PA mission in the 205th Corps,” said Quinn. “The ability of the ANA to effectively communicate with their fellow soldiers and the public is critical to their future success.” Eight ANA 205th Corps publicaffairs reps took part in the training, in which they studied the concepts of everything from news release writing, to shooting quality photos and video.

“Br inging in the reps from the brigades and the corps [PA] shops allows them to share ideas, learn from each other, and enable the MPATT to provide standardized training,” said Quinn. Members of the MPATT served as instructors for the seminar with the help of translators.

“I had to figure out a way of teach ing that made sense to the soldiers,” said AF Staff Sgt. Katerina Slivinske, an MPATT broadcaster and videographer. “However, I found using visual examples along with explanations, worked really well.”In addition to classroom instruction, the soldiers performed hands-on practical exercises, where they demonstrated their skills with still and video cameras.

“I thought the practical tra ining was very useful, and my favorite part of the seminar,” said Sgt. Donish, publicaffairs NCO, ANA’s 205th Corps. “The training we received was very good, and now it's on us to practice. If we don’t practice these skills the training will be wasted.”

The MPATT members are already plann ing for an advanced level seminar, which is slated for late Nov. “By giving the ANA the PA tools to efficiently convey their accomplishments and contributions to the community, we're helping them gain the support of the Afghan people, which is invaluable to the transition process,” said Quinn.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 8, 2011

North

KUNDUZ PROVINCE -- In Qal’ah-ye Zal district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed 2 Taliban leaders, and detained 2 suspected insurgents during a security op. Both leaders were responsible for roadside bomb attacks against Afghan govt officials. The insurgent leaders were killed after they engaged the SecFor during the search op. Both leaders were armed with AK-47 assault rifles and multiple grenades.

South

ZABUL PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban facilitator and one suspected insurgent, during a security op in Qalat district. The facilitator was responsible for the destruction of infrastructure, as well as abductions of Afghan citizens.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- In Nad ‘Ali district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader, and detained a suspected insurgent during a security op. The leader facilitated murder and intimidation campaigns against local nationals in the area, as well as led direct fire and roadside bomb attacks targeting Afghan forces.

East

KHOST PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network leader in Terayzai district. The leader was involved in the abductions of individuals associated with Afghan forces, as well as car bomb attacks targeting govt installations. A model was found, likely used for attack planning, and multiple military uniforms were confiscated.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Gardez district. The leader acquires weapons for use by insurgents and directs attacks targeting Afghan forces in the Zurmat and Gardez districts.

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- In Gelan district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor patrol detained numerous suspected insurgents, during an op, yesterday. The insurgents are suspected of being a part of a network responsible for multiple attacks on Afghan and CF.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Army Reserve 206th BOD Soldiers Receive Awards

Story by Sgt. Kellena Leech

BAGHDAD - Troops and civilians lined up at an awards ceremony, Oct. 5, to congratulate and give "bon voyages" to the 18 soldiers deployed with the 206th Broadcast Ops Det. (BOD), based out of Grand Prairie, Texas. The soldiers received commendation medals and service coins for their accomplishments in support of Op New Dawn (OND). Mr. Charles Hunter, senior counselor for public affairs (PA) for the U.S. embassy in Iraq, also presented certificates of appreciation to the soldier techs for their work facilitating key media engagements with USF-Iraq officials, as well as Ambassador James Jeffrey.

“It’s important to take opportunities like this to recognize the efforts of those who've contributed to the success and mission accomplishment of USF-Iraq,” said Lt. Col. Freddie Mack, cmdr. of American Forces Network (AFN)-Iraq, the network for which the 206th BOD served. “What’s as equally significant to note is the rich history enjoyed by AFN, and how the 206th BOD will take its place in that history,” Mack said.

According to AFN, the network has deployed troops in every major conflict since World War II. “Wherever they go, whenever there's a need to put boots on the ground, we’re going to be there to tell the troops’ story,” said Sgt. 1st Class Donald Dees, broadcast NCO-in-charge of the 206th BOD, in a recent interview. “It's important to tell the story of the people who support the mission, as well as the story of the people who are on the mission.”

During their 10-month deployment in support of OND, the 206th BOD soldiers told those stories by producing video features, documentaries and radio broadcasts. They shared those stories by providing technical service support to military bases and the U.S. embassy here.

On Sept. 23, the 206th BOD told their final story and closed the chapter on AFN-Iraq as a part of the U.S. govt’s compliance with the security agreement in Iraq, that says all U.S. troops must be out of the country by Dec. 31. The unit will be the last BOD here to support the network. Mack says the soldiers will return to the States, but will always live up to the meaning of their motto: “Serving those who serve.”

Iraq: ITAM-police transfer authority to INL as part of repostering effort.

Joanna

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AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Women’s Empowerment Luncheon at Camp Nathan Smith

Story by Spc. April York

Lt. Col. Eugenia Guilmartin, cmdr. of 385th MP Bn, attached to 2nd BCT, 4th ID, welcomes women who attended an empowerment luncheon, held at Camp Nathan Smith, Oct. 4. During the luncheon, influential women within the community spoke on such topics of employment, education, safety and security. (Photos by Sgt. Ruth Pagan)

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – The luncheon was hosted by the Kandahar PRT and the 385th MP Bn, to bring women within the community together to discuss concerns about employment, education, safety, and to address ideas of security that they can incorporate into their daily lives.

“There are 3 main issues with women in Kandahar City, which are economic, safety and educational,” said Roqia Askzai, director of women’s affairs (DoWA) in Kandahar City. “Illiteracy is also a big issue, so we need to reopen classes for women to initiate their education.”

Many ideas were discussed for projects to address the issues. Askzai brought up economical issues regarding many women who have lost their sons and husbands, and have no man to bring food and money into the home. “We should think about a project to find some kind of job for such women,” she said. “Not a short term solution, but a long term one.”

Maryam Duranni, Kandahar provincial council member, also addressed the economical issues. “We should give priority to projects that have a market in Kandahar City,” Duranni said. “If a woman is making something, she should be certain that there is a market inside Kandahar City to sell the goods, instead of hoping to sell it to the American market.”

The final issue addressed was security. Malika Noori, an AUP officer with the provincial HQ human resources team, addressed the women. “Kandahar is a big city, and we need more female police officers,” she said. “If there are domestic problems in Kandahar City, female police officers can go and listen to the woman, and solve their problems.”

She asked the women in attendance to spread the word to their friends and family. “We have to spread this news around through the districts and villages so more women can come forward and join the peace forces,” Noori said.

To conclude the speaking portion of the luncheon, a slide show presentation with safety tips was presented. Some of the attendees added to the presentation by sharing some of their personal experiences on how they stay safe. The 385th MPs provided a traditional Afghan lunch, where the women were able to converse and exchange contact info.

“I hope this meeting is not the last, but we keep communication with one another, and I look forward to seeing you all again soon,” Askzai said.

Cpl. Kylie Weaver, a Marine Wing Support 371 field radio operator from Fla., readies one of the sqdn’s M-ATVs for a drive mission at Camp Leatherneck, Oct. 1. Weaver, who deployed to Afghanistan with Marine Wing Support Sqdn 372 in 2010, said she’s surprised by how much Camp Leatherneck has developed in that short period of time. “I thought I was going to recognize a lot more,” she said. “Leatherneck has expanded quite a bit.”

CAMP LEATHERNECK -- Support sqdns. complete a number of missions on the ground to keep the aircraft of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) flying. This includes refueling jets and helicopters, aircraft rescue firefighting, construction and motor transport support. MWS Sqdn 272, based in New River, N.C., carried out those tasks until early Oct., when they relinquished command to MWS Sqdn. 371, deployed from Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz.

Lt. Col. Dale Kruse, the MWS Sqdn. 272 comm. officer, led his squadron in support of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) for more than 6 months. “It’s been a highly productive deployment,” said Kruse, a native of Mich. “Not only have the Marines exceptionally executed our standard missions, they’ve also been part of several large-scale building ops.”

Support sqdns. also expand the reach of 2nd MAW (Fwd) by creating landing zones, expeditionary airfields, and forward arming and refueling points. These support sqdn. projects allow British and U.S. Marine Corps aircraft to fly farther, and stay in the air longer.

Though Marine Wing Support Sqdn 371, deployed to Afghanistan 2 years ago, they'll support a much larger force in this deployment. Lt. Col. Michael Prosser, the sqdn’s comm. officer, and a native of Colo., said that his Marines are ready for the challenge.

Prosser, who first deployed to Afghanistan in 2001, said that the progress the country has made is noticeable. “Afghanistan’s lights are on now,” he said. “When I flew here in 2001, not a lot of power was up. When you fly around now, you get to see the lights."

“My plan is to capitalize on the success of previous sqdns. using their achievements as a model for my team to emulate,” Prosser said. “We intend to support combined teams and assets at multiple locations, to ensure the aviation combat element is prepared to provide the Marine Air-Ground TF with the most efficient and effective air support.”

Lt. Col. Michael Prosser addresses his Marines, after assuming control of aviation support ops.

Marines with MWS Sqdn. 371 salute during a ceremony. MWS Sqdn. 272, relinquished command to MWS Sqdn. 371, and is deploying back to Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C.

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DVIDS

Senior Haqqani Network Leader Killed in Airstrike

ISAF Joint Command

KHOST PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed a senior Haqqani leader and 2 of his assocs., during a precision airstrike in Musa Khel district, Oct. 6. Dilawar, who was only known by one name, was a principal subordinate to Haji Mali Khan, Afghanistan’s lead Haqqani network leader. Dilawar was killed exactly one week following Khan’s capture, resulting in another significant loss for the insurgent group.

Dilawar operated along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, between the Khost and Paktiya provs., where he actively coordinated numerous attacks against Afghan forces, and facilitated the movement of weapons. He also facilitated the movement of foreign fighters, and was associated with both al-Qaida and the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan.

Prior to Mali Khan’s capture by the combined Afghan and coalition SecFor, he worked closely with Dilawar planning attacks throughout the area. Specifically, Dilawar had just conducted an ambush on Afghan forces in Paktiya prov. last month.

In an effort to prevent insurgent activity, the Haqqani network and its safe havens remain a top priority for the Afghan and CF. Thus far in 2011 SecFor have conducted more than 530 ops in an effort to disrupt Haqqani network activities in Eastern Afghanistan, resulting in the death of 20 network leaders, and the capture of more than 1,400 suspected Haqqani insurgents.

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DVIDS

Coming of Age Through War: Cpl. Tyler Van Effen

Story and photo by Cpl. James Clark

Cpl. Tyler Van Effen, from Mich., (left) and Lance Cpl. Adam Toffling, from Vt., have created lasting bonds during their deployment. Both Van Effen and Toffling are on their 2nd deployment with 1st Bn, 6th Marine Regt.

SANGIN DISTRICT -- Camaraderie: it’s the crux of every great action movie, the hinge upon which the scales are balanced between the light and dark moments. The cinema version of brotherhood, though far removed from and far flashier than reality, is based on something real, something tangible. It’s that rare connection which comes into being only through shared misery and hardship, but once it manifests, forms a bond that can hold men together through the harshest of realities.

“Camaraderie is being able to depend on the person to your left or right, whether in a firefight, or just because you need someone to talk to and joke around with,” said Cpl. Tyler Van Effen. “In the Marine Corps, even when you don’t know people that well at first, you spend one week out in the field with them, and you get to know what they're like,” said Van Effen. “You develop a bond very quickly, even with those you wouldn’t normally like.”

"Through shared experience, and in particular, mutual hardship, friendships which would have never existed otherwise are formed," he explained. “Even if you disagree with someone or dislike one another – you still have each other’s back - especially on deployment.”

In addition to making friends out of potential enemies, the experiences shared by brothers-in-arms, can often lead to a change in character, one which the oft times aloof and joking Van Effen can attest to. “People change, come into their own and fulfill roles they never had before. The true you starts to come out; people really show their colors. When under extreme duress, Marines tend to joke, and fall back on humor to relieve stress and lighten the mood,” said Van Effen, explaining that it can be as simple a transformation as the introvert becoming an extrovert, the quiet and somber one may become the joker, or the aloof one has a close call, and becomes the voice of reason for the rest of the group.

“We’re all brothers…we all are...even those you clash with; you’re around them so much they become family,” said Van Effen, his easy going smile overshadowed by a more serious and genuine tone. “I’ll talk to my wife and try to tell her what’s going on, but to a point, family back home won’t get it unless they’ve done it too,” said Van Effen, adding that it’s his family out here who understands, because they’re doing it alongside him, through the worst and the best of it.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command morning operational update, Oct. 7, 2011

North

BALKH PROVINCE -- In Chahar Bolak district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader, during an op. The leader was responsible for weapons and roadside bomb facilitation, as well as planned attacks against Afghan forces.

South

HELMAND PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, and discovered a bomb cache, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Musa Qal’ah district. The SecFor safely destroyed 600-lbs (272 kg) of homemade explosives, multiple rockets, land mines, pressure plate bombs, and RPGs. The leader facilitates murder and intimidation campaigns against local nationals in the southern Musa Qala district, as well as conducts direct fire, roadside bomb and suicide attacks against Afghan forces.

----- In Sangin district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader. The leader plans attacks in the upper Sangin valley.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor discovered a weapons cache in Sangin district, yesterday. The cache consisted of 4,000 7.62 mm rounds, and military clothing.

BAGHDAD (Oct. 5, 2011) – U.S. service members and civilians have advised and trained ISF for years. During Operation New Dawn (OND), Iraq Training and Advisory Mission (ITAM)-Police have had the primary responsibility for advising IP forces to become a self-sufficient protection force for their country.

As OND approaches its end of mission date, Dec. 31, 2011, ITAM-Police are preparing to transfer its police training responsibilities to the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL), as a civilian-led training force. The INL is an org., which is part of the U.S.’ Dept. of State that advises the president, secretary of state, and other bureaus and depts within the govt, on laws and regulations to combat int'l. narcotics crimes.

“The intent was for INL to integrate INL leadership within the ITAM beginning in early 2011, in order to match up the ITAM end of mission and the INL start of mission plan,” said Brig. Gen. Michael Smith, director of ITAM-Police. The transition process, which began in Aug., will completely turn over 20 training facilities from ITAM-Police to the INL. Three facilities were transitioned in Aug., 7 in Sept., and the final 10 will be handed over in Oct., according to U.S. Marine Col. Troy Taylor, INL Transition Team Chief.

In the 8 years ITAM-Police were in charge of the development of the INP’s training, the emphasis was on supplying training sites with state of the art technology, and training the junior officers. Now, the INL will focus less on supplying and more on the actual training, with a focus on the higher-level ministry chiefs of police, to help create a self-sufficient security force.

“The ITAM-Police have done a wonderful job, and they've done it in only 8 years,” said Audie Holloway, INL Police Development Program Director of Iraq Ministry of Interior. “It's truly amazing what has been done in 8 years.”

All the advisers working with the INL have senior-level law-enforcement experience, and are subject matter experts in communications and forensics. “Our mission is a refinement mission,” Holloway, an Alaska native, added. “Theirs was a building mission. We would not have had the manpower to accomplish what they have. Our org. is standing on the shoulders of the ITAM.”

“The INL Police-developed program is a new program,” said Smith. “It's not a continuation of the ITAM mission. It has a very narrow but defined target audience. Using on-the-job mentoring and advising, the INL advisors will work side by side their Iraqi counterparts on key issues of importance,” Smith added. “This approach will develop personal relationships, build trust, and enable access to key Ministry of Interiors officials.”

Although the withdrawal of U.S. forces in Iraq is a significant step in the direction of a self-sustaining democratic Iraq, the transition of the ITAM-Police to the INL is an example of the new long-term partnership between the 2 nations.

Haji Manaf (right), the gov. of Nawa district, Helmand province, speaks to an older man at the Pinjadoo Bazaar. Manaf has been Nawa’s district gov. for approx 2 years. The district was a hotbed for insurgents prior to Manaf’s tenure as district gov., but the last 2 years have seen increased security and development in the area, creating a bright future for the Afghan people.

PINJADOO – The Pinjadoo Bazaar was already buzzing – hundreds of Nawa district residents were out selling and trading goods, conducting business on what seemed like a normal day. The already energetic atmosphere became even more excited when Nawa district’s Gov. Manaf, arrived on scene. A small crowd gathered around the gov., as he shook hands and talked to people.

AUP and Marines with Charlie Co, 1st Bn, 9th Marine Regt, escorted the district gov. through the Pinjadoo Bazaar, as he interacted with citizens during a recent visit, to view the progress the village is making to promote commerce and stability in the area.

The crowd following the gov. around the bazaar grew steadily as more and more people joined him. “He’s got a unique ability to connect with his citizens and spread the positive message of the GoA,” said Capt. Jason Goodale of Va., the comm. officer of Charlie Co. “I thought the gov. was well-received and very pleased to be among his people.”

The people have every reason to appreciate their district gov. Nawa has been a shining example of success in Helmand prov., during the past 2 years, ousting a visible insurgency, and installing legitimate govt officials like Manaf, among others. Pinjadoo has greatly benefitted from the area’s prosperity, and today its bazaar is a major center of commerce within the district.

“Everybody’s glad. Everybody’s happy,” said Manaf. “I haven’t seen anybody who's going to come up to me and complain.” Manaf also took the opportunity to visit the adjacent Pinjadoo AUP precinct, and a school in the village. Manaf, Goodale and the local AUP cmdr. discussed the progress in Pinjadoo, and future plans while drinking chai at the precinct.

“We also discussed the fact that he wants to build a new high school in Pinjadoo, on the backside of the bazaar, and talked about his vision for that, as well as education as a whole in Nawa,” said Goodale. Education, a privilege some Americans may take for granted, is lacking in many areas of Helmand prov. Only 34% of Afghans are literate, and only 28% of children are enrolled in secondary school. Manaf wants to make sure his citizens are getting a good education – both boys and girls.

“There are still some things that need to happen in Nawa; we need to be honest about that,” said Manaf. “For example, girl schools; we don’t have any girl schools. If you’re talking about democracy, there has to be girl schools as well.”Manaf’s final stop was at a school in Pinjadoo, where classes were packed with young boys. The students were hard at work when their district gov. paid a visit.

Nawa has certainly come a long way in 2 years: a bustling bazaar, a legitimate and competent police force, and classrooms filled with Afghanistan’s youth would have been unfathomable as late as 2009.

“I think the situation in Nawa is pretty good,” said Goodale. “We’ve got a strong govt. We have rapidly developing and strong security forces within Nawa. We’ve got a very hard-working populace that is dedicated and devoted to the future of not only Nawa, but Afghanistan.”

A Marine with Charlie Co., patrols through the Pinjadoo Bazaar.

Marines with 1st Bn, patrol through the Pinjadoo Bazaar. The bazaar, one of the largest centers of commerce in Nawa district, was buzzing as local residents sold and traded goods with each other freely.

A Marine talks to a local resident at the Pinjadoo Bazaar.

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DVIDs

Lonestars Shoot It Up

Story and photo by Capt. Bonnie Hutchinson

Spc. Yeison Betancur, a driver for 2nd STB, 2nd BCT, 4th ID, shoots an M4 rifle during marksmanship training, Sept. 30. The training involved soldiers from 2nd STB, TF South (Italian), FOB Farah’s PRT, and the AF Joint Tactical Air Controller. The different soldiers and airmen came together, and learned from each other’s experiences.

FARAH – In addition to building teamwork, the event was aimed at improving individual proficiency on weapons. “This training will aide in the effectiveness of the coalition partnership, and our ability to work together on our joint mission,” said Maj. Richard Fierro, the ops officer for 2nd STB.

During the event, American and Italian soldiers learned about each other’s weapons systems, and were given the opportunity to shoot them. “During events with coalition partners, it's important to focus on training,” Fierro said.

To culminate the event each soldier fired their primary and alternate weapon while moving. “This is an experience I'll always remember,” said Staff Sgt. Micael Lanthier, the PSD plt. sgt. “Although it did get competitive at times, we all took the time to learn from each other’s combat experience, and never lost focus on the brotherhood we've all formed at FOB Farah.”

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Blackanthem Military News

USACE Delivers Books to Build University Engineering Capacity

Story and photo by USACE Mark Ray

Afghans from Kandahar University work with Soldiers from PRT Kandahar to unload engineering textbooks.

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD -- The Soviet occupation damaged Afghanistan's universities, and the reign of the Taliban nearly destroyed them. On Sept. 22, the Kandahar PRT helped the USACE Afghanistan Engineer District-South repair some of that damage, by delivering $120,000 worth of engineering text books to Kandahar University.

"The Cmdr's Emergency Response Program (CERP), which allows military cmdrs. to meet urgent humanitarian relief and reconstruction requirements in their areas of responsibility, funded the purchase of the books," said Elliot Porter, a program mgr., with the district's Water and Infrastructure Branch. Porter, who deployed to Afghanistan from the USACE Pittsburgh District, is responsible for coordinating CERP and renewable energy initiatives at the South District.

"The books were the first of a series of efforts, which will increase the capability of Kandahar University to provide quality engineering instruction to Afghans," Porter explained. Over the next year, the university will also receive:Equipment to help demonstrate key engineering concepts, such erosion and fluid dynamics; a concrete testing lab;

office and classroom equipment.

"The program to increase the capacity of the engineering dept., started with a visit to the university by former district cmdr., Army Col. Anthony Funkhouser, in March 2010," Porter said. Funkhouser wanted to discuss the possibility of establishing a program to hire locally-educated Afghan engrs. The district's Herat Area Office had significant success with a similar program at Herat University. In the course of the discussions, it became clear that the university had serious shortfalls in textbooks and equipment needed to educate its engineering students.

"Colonel Funkhouser asked the university authorities for a list of requirements," Porter said. "Once we had the list, we reviewed it to see what we could do within the district's CERP authority, and began to develop a program to meet the most pressing needs."

"The faculty and students of the engineering dept are very excited by the prospect of having up-to-date texts and demonstration equipment," said a rep from the Kandahar University Authority. "These materials will help increase the capacity of our professors to teach, and our students to learn."

"By helping the Afghan universities reestablish their ability to train engrs, we help create the conditions for Afghans to effectively build and maintain their national infrastructure, including the infrastructure that supports the ANA and ANP," said Porter.

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DVIDS

DCOM-RS Tours Southern Afghanistan, Likes What he Sees

Story by Master Sgt. Paul Hughes

KANDAHAR – If it were possible for people to gain energy from the people they work under, then the men and women of the NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan’s Regional Support Command would have it in abundance. Their leader, deputy cmdr. for Regional Support (DCOM-RS) Command Brig. Gen. Tom Cosentino, demonstrated his contagious energy during a 2-day jaunt through southern Afghanistan.

During his visit, Cosentino visited both ANA and ANP sites throughout the region, and particularly enjoyed meeting with the young recruits. Cosentino asked the young soldiers and patrolmen he talked to if they were receiving their pay regularly; they were. He also reminded them that they were the future leaders of Afghanistan, and that they should treat the people as if they are their own family members.

At both the police and Army sites, Cosentino visited students as they worked hard to become more literate – many new recruits arrive with little or no ability to read and write. Often, the students studied in separate classrooms: one for Dari speakers, the other for Pashtu. Cosentino emphasized to the warriors and patrolmen who speak different languages and belong to different tribes, that their new tribes were represented in the uniforms that they wear.

The students, to a man, assured the general that they regarded their fellow service members as brothers who stand shohna ba shohna (shoulder to shoulder). The teamwork was especially evident at the ANP’s Regional Training Center-Kandahar as recruits provided Cosentino and other VIPs with impressive demonstrations, ranging from a riot-control scenario and arresting techniques, to first-aid and combat lifesaver skills.

Cosentino also had a great time watching the recruits on the combat arms range firing at targets with their M-16s. “These are good, accurate rifles,” said Cosentino to a recruit and an ANA instructor, “but you have to make sure you keep them clean.”

During a stop at Camp Hero, home of the ANA’s 205th Corps, Cosentino stopped at the 5th Kondak’s Maintenance Bay, where he promised he’d make sure the mechanics were able to get spare parts, and the equipment they needed for preventive maintenance.

At the Joint Regional ANP Center, Cosentino watched ANP students demonstrate lifesaving skills, as part of the new Trauma Assistance Medic Course. The course, which draws students from the Afghan Border, Uniform and Civil Order police (COP) forces, focuses on saving the lives of their comrades in the event of life-threatening injuries.

The course’s success depends on having the best and brightest former students taking what they’ve learned, and teaching future students. ABP Sgt. Abdul Khaliq, epitomized that student, and Cosentino recognized his efforts with a coin. Cosentino also spent his time in the South touring facilities and meeting with leaders of the ANA and ANP. Cosentino listened to their issues, and promised to fix the situations that needed fixing.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 6, 2011

South

HELMAND PROVINCE -- In Nahr-E Saraj district, today, a combined Afghan and CF patrol killed several insurgents including an insurgent leader, during an op that was ongoing throughout the week. The insurgent leader is a known lethal aid facilitator. He's directly responsible for organizing numerous attacks against ANSF and CF throughout Helmand. The op seized 99-lbs (45 kgs) of refined opium, 7 artillery rounds, and a quantity of small arms and ammo.

----- A Taliban leader was captured and 2 insurgents were killed by a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor, during an op in Musa Qal’ah district. The leader operated a roadside bomb factory, as well as distributed munitions throughout the region. Additionally, he threatened the local population through the extortion of food and money in the Musa Qal’ah district. Two insurgents were killed after firing at the SecFor, and four additional suspected insurgents were detained.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and CF patrol detained numerous insurgents, during an op in Maiwand district, yesterday. The op seized a quantity of small arms and ammo.

----- In Shah Wali district, yesterday, a combined Afghan and CF patrol killed multiple insurgents, and detained several others. The insurgents were killed after they engaged the ANSF and CF patrol with RPGs, machine gun and small-arms fire.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader during a security op in Kandahar district. The leader was responsible for abductions in the area, as well as the movement of foreign fighters into Afghanistan.

----- In Maiwand district, yesterday, a combined Afghan and CF discovered and seized a drug cache consisting of 165-lbs (75 kgs) of hashish.

NIMROZ PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and CF patrol detained an insurgent, during an op in Khash Rod district, yesterday. The op seized a quantity of IED components.

ZABUL PROVINCE -- In Shah Joy district, yesterday, an ANSF and ISAF patrol detained several insurgents, and seized a small weapons cache. The op seized a machine gun, 2 pistols, and a quantity of IED components.

East

KAPISA PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SECFOR patrol killed a Taliban leader during an op in Tagab district, today. The leader is considered the main IED facilitator in northern Tagab, and is also responsible for multiple attacks against Afghan and CF throughout the area.

During the op, the insurgent leader opened fire on the SecFor, and responding to the immediate threat, the SecFor returned fire, killing the leader. Sadly, one local national child was killed and another wounded. The 2 children were hidden, and unidentified in the same room the leader was engaging the SecFor from. An immediate Shura was held with local nationals in the area, and an additional Shura will be held with village elders to discuss the incident.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE — In Jani Khel district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed 3 insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader. The leader distributes weapons, ammo, and roadside bombs to other insurgent leaders throughout region for use in attacks against Afghan forces. At the onset of the op, the SecFor was engaged by RPG, machine gun and small arms fire. Responding to the immediate threat, the SecFor returned fire, killing 3 and wounding 1 insurgent.

Additionally, a local national female was killed, and one was wounded during the op. Both of the females were located inside of the building from which the insurgents were firing. A local leader engagement will be held with the deputy gov., to discuss the incident.

Multiple weapons were confiscated to include a PKM machine gun with 500 rounds, as well as, an RPG launcher with multiple RPGs. Three suspected insurgents were detained during the op.

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and CF patrol seized a small weapons cache, during an op in Gelan district, yesterday. The op seized 4 grenades, 2 fuses, and a quantity of mortar charges.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed an armed Taliban leader, during an op in Muhammad Aghah district. The leader planned vehicle bomb attacks in the Muhammad Aghah district, as well as financially supporting and managing insurgent fighters. During the op the SecFor was engaged by an armed individual, and responding to the immediate threat, the force returned fire killing the insurgent leader. Multiple weapons including AK-47 assault rifles and fragment grenades were confiscated, and one suspected insurgent was detained.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Judo-Surfing Soldier Signals for Waves in Iraq

Story and photos by Spc. Anthony Zane

Pfc. Marshall Hughes, satellite communications operator and maintainer, Signal Co, HHB, 25th ID from N.C., relaxes after competing in the Modern Army Combatives Program competition on COB Adder.

COB ADDER – Waves of Soldiers have moved in and out of Iraq since the U.S. first arrived in 2003; their uniforms creating a contrasting flow across the desert sand. Surfing within that constant current is Pfc. Marshall Hughes. Growing up in Asheboro, N.C., Hughes’ interest to join the Army was inspired by his grandfather.

“My grandfather was prior military, and after hearing about his war stories, I wanted to experience what it was like to be a soldier,” said Hughes. “I try to follow in his footsteps.” Looking for a soldier’s life, the 21-year-old is serving his first tour. Working for the Signal Co, Hughes has been cross-trained to perform a variety of tasks that includes working with satellite communication and transmission systems.

A soldier's life is just what he found: his team works long hours with no days off. Still, he finds time to stay physically fit, something he has actively pursued through his 2 favorite passions in life: marital arts and surfing. In his junior year, he started researching wrestling and it’s origins, he recounted. He found out that wrestling is generally considered the oldest sport, and he liked the idea of being part of that history, and participating in a sport with deep roots.

Hughes began to research the history of Judo to learn more about its origins, which also increased his interest in the culture behind the art. Judo was just the beginning, and opened the door to the world of martial arts for him. His desire to branch out led him to study other styles, including Muay Thai, Ju-Jitsu and Aikido.

His martial art practices have earned Hughes a brown belt in both Judo and Muay Thai, as well as a blue belt in Ju-Jitsu. "Studying different styles of martial arts broadens your understanding of the arts and sharpens your techniques," he said. "If you understand its origins, and you understand the purpose of it from its history, you will excel in it," he explains. "This understanding will help you out in the long run," he said.

During his deployment to Iraq, temporarily replacing ocean waves with desert sands, Hughes is able to stay active with one of his passions, through the Modern Army Combatives Program (MACP), an Army program with martial arts origins. He participated in an MACP tournament, held at COB Adder. At 5 feet 6 inches, and weighing in at 155 pounds, Hughes was able to compete in the welterweight class.

The match concluded with his opponent making the final conquering move, forcing Hughes off balance, and finishing the match. But Hughes walked away with a smile on his face and his head held high. He quickly analyzed his bout: “He got me with an Uchi Mata slam,” he explained, referring to one of the original Judo throws; a move known for it’s difficulty to defend against. “I was too focused on one choke, and that’s what got me.”

“It doesn’t matter how good you are, and it doesn’t matter how long you’ve done it, you'll always lose at least once to somebody. That’s part of the process, and it only helps you improve your technique. You learn from your mistakes and from your losses.” His outlook with his martial arts parallels that of his surfing experiences. When a wave throws him off his board, he gets right back on, ready to conquer the next wave.

“It doesn’t come down to who wins and who loses,” said Hughes. “It’s what you learn from it. That’s what my Sensei always taught me. He said, ‘never be upset at the end of a match. Unless you broke your arm, you can get right back in there, and you can win. Learn from it.’”

“Every time I would lose, I would go off to the side with the person that beat me and have him teach me how to counter what happened,” he said. “I would do the same with whoever I beat.” His durability and resiliency, mixed with his humble, optimistic attitude keeps Hughes in the fight, making him a worthy opponent and a well-rounded soldier.

Pfc. Marshall Hughes competes in the Modern Army Combatives Program competition.

Op Steel Rain disrupts Haqqanis in Khowst. A friendly battle between forces in Kabul. Corps' largest aircraft depends on small team of Marines. Life support at 10,000 feet: Marines on ground keep pilots breathing. ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 5, 2011.

Iraq: California Guardsmen train Iraqis on HEMTT fuel trucks.

Joanna

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Operation Steel Rain Disrupts Haqqanis in Khowst

Story by Spc. Tobey White

Army soldiers from the 1st Bn, 26th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, pull security on a road during Op Steel Rain in Tirzaye district, Sept. 24. The mission was a joint effort between Afghan and U.S. forces, and focused on eliminating insurgents from villages, materials involved in the making of IEDs and illegal weapons. (Army photos by Sgt. Joseph Watson)

KHOWST PROVINCE -- The Haqqani network is a criminal org., with links to the Taliban and al-Qaida, and believed to be based across the nearby Afghan-Pakistan border. "During the mission, joint forces had to cover a vast area in a short amount of time," said Capt. Daniel Leard, Able Co, 1st Bn. cmdr., and Penn. native. The cooperation between the 3 different forces - U.S., ANA and ABP, allowed the joint force to synchronize their efforts to make the most effective use of their time.

"The op involved several moving parts as CF moved through the area to eliminate insurgents from villages, materials involved in the making of IEDs and illegal weapons," said Staff Sgt. Oscar Lorenzano, plt. sgt. “We went out and let the bad guys know we were here,” the Calif. native said. “A lot of people were very inviting and told us to come back.”

"In addition to finding any munitions in the area, another aspect of the mission was to deny insurgents the use of border routes into Afghanistan, and to clear cache sites," said Leard.

“There’s a great deal of cross-border activity out in Tirzaye,” said Lt. Col. Jesse Pearson, 1st Bn., 26th Inf. Regt. cmdr., and Ill. native. “A lot of people come across the border, not just insurgents.” In order to reduce the risk of civilian casualties, Pearson emphasized the importance of working closely with the local population. “It’s important for us to get out there and spend time with the local village leaders and elders and make sure we understand the dynamics inside the villages and find out where the insurgents are finding refuge in the area,” Pearson added.

"Due to the remote and mountainous terrain, several of the villages visited had not seen a U.S. or ANSF presence in quite some time," Lorenzano said. To ease the introduction of the military to the local population, ANSF forces led several shuras, or community meetings, designed to meet the villagers and let them know their govt was there for them and wanted to help.

In addition to the ANSF-led shuras, the Tirzaye district Sub-Gov. Badshah led shuras for the people of Landar and Kadam villages, providing him the opportunity to hear their concerns and issues. "It was a unique opportunity to connect the govt to the people, to foster a better working relationship," Pearson said.

"One benefit of Op Steel Rain was Afghan forces being incorporated into the fight and being allowed to take the lead," Lorenzano said. ANSF forces were eager to take charge during the clearance and searching of homes, with U.S. forces acting as security and giving guidance when necessary."

“We saw an outstanding performance by the ANA and ABP,” Leard said. “They really did most of the work.” Pfc. Wade James, a rifleman for 2nd Plt., and a native of N.C., said that he noticed a marked change in the current abilities of the ANSF forces, compared to when the 2 units initially partnered up 10 months ago.

When his company first started partnering with the Afghan soldiers, James said, "the ANA soldiers weren’t very thorough when it came to clearing a house. During Steel Rain, however, the ANSF soldiers demonstrated a capability and thoroughness that showed significant improvement. They did very well,” James said. “I was just there to point out things to be cautious of.”

“Our close partnership with the ANSF forces reinforced that ideal and ethic among them that we're standing shoulder-to-shoulder with them, fighting the enemy, reinforcing them, and giving them the assets and resources they need to be successful,” Pearson said.

Sgt. Tyler Brummond, a squad leader with the 1st Bn, and a native of Wash., pulls security near a village in Tirzaye district. (Army photos by 2nd Lt. James Hodges)

Members of Viper Co set up a tactical satellite antenna used for long-range communications.

Lt. Col. Jesse Pearson, the bn. cmdr. of 1st Bn, and a native of Ill, speaks with village elders.

A coalition army soccer player tries to kick the ball away from an Afghan army soldier, Sept. 30, 2011 in Kabul. The purpose of this game soccer game was to build new friendships and strengthen relationships between the two. (Photos by Spc. Anthony Murray, Jr.)

KABUL – With the temps reaching a high of 82 degrees, crowds of Afghan locals packed the stands of HQ ISAF. The ANA and ISAF men’s soccer team battled it out with a grueling game of soccer [football], while Afghan locals danced and cheered for both teams.

Sixteen year old Hamid waved his country’s flag through the air with a great deal of pride as he watched the ISAF and ANA teams play together. Before the start of the game, Hamid tied his Afghan flag to a long wooden pole he found near his father’s bazaar stand. “This was my 4th time watching the ISAF team play my team,” said Hamid. “It feels good to see everyone working and playing together; it’s good for me and my country.”

The ISAF soccer team knew going into this game that it would be tough to beat this skilled, highly trained ANA soccer team, but they continued to fight. “We knew they would be really good,” said Josh Temblador, a State Dept political officer, and native of N.Y. “They're young, in great shape, and well trained.”

The 90 minute game was fast paced from beginning to end, with the ISAF team keeping with the fundamentals of the game. “This was a good game,” said Ali Wasir, mid fielder for ANA. “I enjoy each time we play the ISAF team, but this time it was different for me. They played us harder this time, more technical.”

Despite the 5-0 loss for the ISAF team, the real mission was accomplished. “Today’s battle was one of building new friendships and strengthening relationships through a friendly game of soccer,” said British Army Capt. Keith Barber, ISAF’s soccer coach, and native of Northeast England. “We all came out and we all had fun together. “

More games are scheduled to follow between the two forces. Games like this do not happen without the support of dedicated ISAF Morale and Welfare Activities staff members. “I would like to thank Schigo [Jorg Schigowski] and Steveo [Stephen Weaver] for their part in organizing this match,” said Barber. “This includes buying new football strips [uniform], new goal nets, and going all out to the extent of mowing the grass, and painting the lines on the pitch.”

The ANA players and Afghan locals were very grateful that ISAF welcomed them with opened arms. “The ISAF team is great to play against,” said Haji Mohammad, ANA team captain. “I like that we get to play together on ISAF. I look forward to the next time I get to play against them.”

At the end of the soccer game Col. Curtis Winstead, ISAF Base Support Group cmdr., presented players from both teams with ISAF t-shirts, and certificates of appreciation to commemorate the friendly battle between the two forces.

A young Afghan boy waves a flag in the stands of the bleachers.

Coalition soldiers and soldiers of the ANA shake hands on the soccer field.

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DVIDS

Corps’ Largest Aircraft Depends on Small Team of Marines

Story and photos by Cpl. Justin Boling

Sgt. David Wolff, a crewmaster with Marine Aerial Refuler Transport Sqdn 152, watches an AV-8B Harrier as it links with the fuel pod of the KC-130J Hercules, in the skies of Afghanistan, Sept. 19. While conducting aerial refueling, crewmasters serve as the eyes of the pilot watching the trailing aircraft as it links to a hose at hundreds of miles per hour.

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD -- The “K” in KC-130J Hercules signifies the Marine Corps aircraft’s ability to refuel other planes in midair. Refueling attack jets like the AV-8B Harrier while flying, increases tactical options for cmdrs. on the ground. “In the case of the Harrier, we can provide them with the ability to stay in the air for nearly twice as long,” explained Staff Sgt. Frederick Wiseman, a KC-130J Hercules crewmaster, and native of Ky. “That means twice as much time to provide recon or close-air support for ground forces operating in the Helmand River valley.”

On the KC-130J, pilots work communications and monitor charging of weather patterns, while the enlisted crewmasters control fuel distribution, and keep eye contact with the connected aircraft. “We like to call the KC-130J a crew-served weapon, because it takes a team to operate it, between maintainers, crewmasters and pilots,” said Sgt. Jon Lofthouse, a crewmaster with the 252nd. “We have to know what every switch, knob and button does, and be able to troubleshoot and fix them if they're not functioning properly.”

Maj. Walter Butler, a KC-130J pilot deployed with the 252nd, said that the enlisted crewmasters on each Hercules aircraft make aerial refueling possible. “The primary function that we perform is serving as the eyes for the pilots, during aerial refueling, and being ready to act in case an emergency arises,” said Wiseman, the staff NCO-in-charge of crewmaster ops for KC-130J Hercules Marines.

“We rely on their judgment if something were to go wrong,” added Butler, who also serves as the comm. officer of KC-130J Hercules Marines. KC-130J support in Afghanistan comes from a combined unit of 3 Marine aerial refueler transport sqdn’s detachments deployed from Miramar, Calif. (352); Okinawa, Japan (152); and Cherry Point, N.C (252).

The 352nd operates the specially equipped Harvest HAWK KC-130J, which, in addition to typical Hercules duties, is also capable of providing close-air support, with its advanced targeting system and air-to-ground missiles.

“The fact that we've united Marines from all 3 different sqdns. brings us a group of talented and skilled Marine crewmasters,” said Maj. John Bowes, a KC-130J Hercules pilot deployed with the 152nd. “Our work directly affects the tide of ops, and these Marines rise to that task every day.”

The responsibilities of crewmasters aren’t limited to aerial refueling. 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) uses the KC-130J Hercules in a variety of other roles, including aerial resupply, battlefield illumination, and troop and cargo transport in SW Afghanistan.

“We're responsible for hundreds of people and their packs as well as thousands of pounds of gear every day,” said Lance Cpl. Dustin Jirovsky, a crewmaster with the 352nd, and a native of Neb. “With the changing needs of passengers and cargo, each day is like a game of Tetris.”

The KC-130J Hercules is the largest aircraft in the Marine Corps arsenal. The propeller-driven, fixed-wing behemoth is the latest iteration of an airframe the U.S. military has relied on for more than 50 years. “I love this job; I cannot imagine doing anything else,” said LCpl. Doug Burnett, a crewmaster with the 252nd, a native of Texas. “I love getting to fly around and see different parts of Afghanistan, while contributing to the efforts of troops in country.”

Cpl. Cody Deck a crewmaster with the 252nd, and a native of Okla., ensures that passengers and cargo are ready for take-off. Crewmasters are tasked with tending to cargo and passengers, and being the eyes and ears of the pilots conducting aerial resupply and refuel.

Sgt. Jon Lofthouse, a crewmaster with the 252nd, checks the ops of the KC-130J Hercules before flight. Lofthouse, from N.Y.C., is tasked with loading and unloading cargo and passengers, and being the eyes and ears of the pilots conducting aerial resupply and refuel.

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DVIDS

Life Support at 10,000 Feet: Marines on Ground Keep Pilots Breathing

Story photos by Pfc. Sean Dennison

Capt. Aaron Frey, a Marine Attack Sqdn. 513 pilot, and Colo. native, prepares to launch his AV-8B Harrier at Kandahar Airfield. The oxygen apparatus he is wearing is courtesy of VMA-513's aviation life support systems (ALSS), which provides the pilots with the gear and equipment necessary for survival in flight.

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD -- Flying more than 10,000 feet above Afghanistan, Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier attack jets operate at levels outside the range of virtually any weapon in insurgent hands. At those altitudes, however, pilots face a different set of challenges: freezing temps and air too thin to breathe. Ensuring pilots are able to safely and confidently command aircraft in the sky comes from the support of a handful of Marines on the ground.

Marine Attack Sqdn 513’s (ALSS) div. has 2 different sets of Marines – those who ready the pilot’s flight equipment, and those who ready the Harrier itself, should a pilot need to eject. “In the div., as a whole, we guarantee that the pilot has proper equipment to fly and get in the jet. We also provide safe means of ejecting if needed,” explained Sgt. Steven Vladiff, 513th aviation safety equipment mechanic, and Ohio native.

The role of the ALSS Marines is almost exclusively preventive. Because these Marines do their jobs, the jet’s cockpit is at a comfortable temp; the pilot has fresh oxygen to breathe, and he knows his safety equipment will work. “We allow the pilot to operate at altitudes above 10,000 feet, and keep him in a comfortable position,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Del Valle, the 513th ejection seat shop staff NCO-in-charge, and N.J. native. “If he’s too cold to think, he’s not going to be able to support the troops on the ground.”

The Marine Corps relies on the short take-off, vertical landing AV-8B Harrier to provide close-air support for coalition troops in Helmand and Nimruz provs. Using guided bomb systems and other precision weapons, Harrier pilots are able to effectively quell insurgent fighting positions, vehicles and hideouts.

In addition to ensuring that pilots are physically able to fight, the ALSS Marines also support the Harrier squadron by providing instruments for survival. The sqdn’s flight equipment techs provide pilots with tools to save their own lives if need be. The palette of survival tools includes flares, knives, parachutes, water and a radio. "The radio allows the pilot to talk to a search and rescue team," explained Cpl. Ryan Ledbetter, flight equipment tech with the sqdn., and an Ill. native. The gear is designed to allow a pilot to survive until help arrives.

“We deal with keeping pilots alive,” said GySgt. Christopher Gendron, the Harrier sqdn’s ALSS division chief, a native of N.J. “There's no backup system for us. Our stuff has to work the first time, every time.”

“Especially in a combat zone, you have to make sure everything is on key,” added Cpl. Riley Peel, a 513th flight equipment tech., and Ga. native. “It’s a different mindset out here, but with us, it’s always about saving lives.”

Cpl. Joseph Aguon, a 513th ejection seat mechanic and a Guam native, closes the hatch on an AV-8B Harrier at Kandahar Airfield. Ejection seat mechanics support the squadron's ALSS div.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 5, 2011

South

HELMAND PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed 2 insurgents during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Kajaki district. The leader is responsible for moving explosives and narcotics throughout the region. The SecFor confiscated multiple weapons and detained 5 additional suspected insurgents during the op.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Kajaki district. The leader conducts attacks against Afghan forces, and assists other Taliban leaders in executing direct fire and roadside bomb attacks throughout the area.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- In Ghorak district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents during a security op in search of a Taliban leader. The leader is directly involved with the planning and execution of attacks against Afghan forces.

East

WARDAK PROVINCE -- In Chak-e Wardak district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed an insurgent during an op in search of a Taliban leader. The leader is responsible for the financial and logistical support of fighters in the region. Multiple suspected insurgents were detained.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban facilitator and multiple other suspected insurgents in the Bati Kot district. The facilitator conducted attacks targeting Afghan forces, and served as a liaison between local fighters and senior Taliban leadership.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- In Zurmat district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader. The leader constructs and stores roadside bombs and other weapons, and manages insurgent fighters, during attacks against Afghan forces in Zurmat and Gardez districts. Multiple weapons, to include AK-47 assault rifles, pistols and grenades, were confiscated.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

California Guardsmen Train Iraqis on HEMTT Fuel Trucks

Story and photo by Spc. Matthew Wright

Sgt. Gilbert Britto of Alpha Co, 640th Aviation Support Bn, and a Calif. native, shows a class of IA personnel a fueling nozzle, and how it connects to the fueling module on a Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) at Camp Taji.

CAMP TAJI -- Soldiers from Alpha Co, 640th Aviation Support Bn recently conducted a week-long class training IA personnel how to operate HEMTTs in preparation for the upcoming assumption of ops by ISF at the Camp Taji Airfield. The M978M HEMTT Fuel truck is a 10-ton, 8-wheeled, fuel servicing vehicle. It's a bulk liquid transporter that holds 2,500 gallons of fuel, and is equipped with a fuel resupply module for pumping fuel.

Soldiers from the 640th trained Iraqi personnel to not only operate and maintain the fuel vehicles, but also to conduct training for other Iraqis on operating and maintaining the HEMTTs. Staff Sgt. Rory Huerta is the NCO-in-charge of the training program. He explained the purpose of the training, and summarized what the 640th Soldiers are teaching the Iraqis in this course.

"They'll be receiving 4 to 6 of these HEMTTs, brand new," he said. "We need to make sure that they understand how to not just drive them, but conduct preventive maintenance and services on the vehicles, as well as fuel their vehicles and aircraft."

The training was an 80-hour block that was condensed to 40 hours. As the training progressed further, 640th Soldiers taught Iraqi personnel instructional techniques for training other Iraqi troops on the HEMTTs. Capt. Ali, the senior Iraqi officer in the class, was impressed with the training and its usefulness for Iraqi personnel. "The class is providing very good info for us," Ali said. "This experience will be good for the warrant officers, and the fueling specialists that I've worked with for 25 years."

The 640th is a California N.G. unit based in 4 cities in Southern California: Long Beach, Los Alamitos, Torrance and El Cajon. The bn's mission for the last 7 months has been to provide aviation ops support for the 40th CAB at a number of bases throughout Iraq. That support included repairing helicopters, providing security and fuel for the brigade, as well as supporting tactical communications at Camp Taji and 2 locations in northern Iraq.

The Iraqi personnel trained by A Co. will assume responsibility for services that American Soldiers provided while in theater. They'll take over the support of ops at the Taji Airfield, as well as the full base ops.

Lt. Col. Lou Carmona, bn. cmdr. of the 640th ASB, delivered a speech during the graduation ceremony at the conclusion of the training. He emphasized his pride in the outstanding manner in which A Co. accomplished its mission, as well as the importance of the training for the ISF.

"At the end of the day, my Soldiers were able to connect with the Iraqis," Carmona later said. "This equipment is an important capability for the IA - it represents the ability to project aviation into parts of the country, where little or no infrastructure exists."

Iraq: Soldiers of the 4th BSTB provide security for contractors at COB Taji.

Joanna

_________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Air Force Mechanics a ‘Driving Force’ Behind Laghman PRT Success

Written by Capt. Tony Vincelli, Laghman PRT

AF Staff Sgts. Dmitry Burshteyn and Tim Husketh, vehicle mechanics attached to Laghman PRT, guide a 3,000-lb power pack into the engine bay of an RG-31 MRAP vehicle, Aug. 20. The AF mechanics work around the clock, to ensure all vehicles assigned to the PRT are at 100% mission ready, so the PRT can roll out at a moment’s notice. (AF photos by Staff Sgt. Ryan Crane)

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -- A trio of AF vehicle maintainers have a major impact on mission success. That is according to the Laghman PRT’s cmdr. AF Lt. Col. Jayson Allen, an Ore. native. He says, "it's because their expertise and innovation have been a driving force behind the PRT’s ability to conduct daily missions throughout the entire prov."

Typical PRT missions range from meeting with GoA about ongoing security, development and governance issues, to inspection of current construction and development projects. “We need our vehicles in order to conduct missions, and have had to face some unexpected challenges from IED blasts and other things,” said Allen. “They have come up big for us every time.”

With more than 25 years experience, and 10 deployments under their collective belts, Tech. Sgt. Samuel Pastor, and Staff Sgts. Tim Husketh and Dmitriy Burshteyn have kept the team’s vehicle fleet fully mission capable, since the team arrived at FOB Mehtar Lam early this summer.

For Pastor, who hails from Calif., the challenges his team face are small in comparison to the satisfaction of getting the job done under pressure. “There's a lot of pressure, getting vehicles up and running all the time, knowing that the mission won’t happen unless the vehicles are ready to go. We don’t take shortcuts, because we know lives depend on it,” said Pastor, a 13-year AF veteran, who also repairs first responder vehicles at his home station.

When they aren’t busy performing routine interval maintenance, they might be called on short notice, sometimes in the middle of the night, to repair vehicles and make sure they're ready for the next morning’s missions. “We’re always in the ‘ready’ mode, to react at a moment’s notice,” Pastor said.

Their work ethic is not lost on the people who rely on them most: the soldiers of the 3rd Plt, Co A, 1st Bde, 182nd Inf Regt, deployed from the Rhode Island Army N.G., who plan and conduct the security and movement portion of all PRT missions. “The vehicles are extremely important to us,” said Sgt. 1st Class Brian Lancey of Conn. “As infantrymen, next to our weapons, the trucks are the most important thing for us, in order to operate outside the wire.” Lancey said that he couldn’t give the maintainers enough praise for their knowledge and their dedication to the mission.“I’ve seen them work until 3 a.m. to get ready for the mission, with no complaints,” said Lancey.

Perhaps the only quality that matches that dedication is their innovation. A great example of the kind of “out-of-the-box” thinking is an improvement they made that will likely save the U.S. taxpayer thousands of dollars. This maintenance crew developed a new and more cost-effective method by using items they had available to fix a broken side or rear window of an RG-31, which normally costs thousands of dollars to repair.

“The first time it happened, it took us 3 weeks to get a replacement window,” said Pastor. After the 3rd time a vehicle came back with a broken window from a rock, the maintainers knew they had to do something. They used an 1/8 inch-thick clear acrylic glass, cut to fit over the side and rear windows and secured them in place.

It's beautiful in its simplicity. Now when a rock hits the window, it breaks the acrylic, but not the glass underneath. It has already saved one window and will undoubtedly save more. “It takes us 20 minutes to replace and saves $3,000 each time,” said Pastor, who submitted his improvement to the Army’s suggestion program.

They also developed an additional headlight with a no-drill design, that can be attached to any tactical vehicle, that they say increases visibility by as much as 50%. For Burshteyn of Calif., it’s all in a day’s work for the Laghman PRT vehicle maintainers. “This deployment has been nice, because we're always following the regulations, but we have some freedom to look at our specific mission, and our people who are relying on these vehicles, and try to think of ways we can help them out,” said Burshteyn.

AF Staff Sgt. Tim Husketh, from Tenn., vehicle mechanic deployed from Ramstein Air Base, Germany, and attached to Laghman PRT, disconnects hoses from an old power pack on an RG-31 MRAP vehicle, Aug. 20. The AF mechanics work around the clock, to ensure all vehicles assigned to the PRT are at 100% mission ready, so the PRT can roll out at a moment’s notice.

AF Staff Sgt. Tim Husketh takes a break at the end of a long day, Aug. 20.

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DVIDS

Forces Becoming Increasingly Effective Against Drug Producers

By Army Sgt. April Campbell

Hundreds of pounds of heroin are prepared for destruction, after being seized by Afghan and CF in a massive drug raid, Sept. 26, in reportedly the largest drug seizure ever made by combined forces. The Counter Narcotics Police (CNPA), partnered with CF, targeted 3 large drug laboratories, which were manufacturing drugs used to finance insurgent attacks against Afghan and CF. Along with the narcotics labs, the combined forces destroyed 1,815 gallons of morphine solution, 220-lbs of heroin, 176-lbs of opium, 26,563-lbs of chemicals used to process narcotics and drug processing equipment, dealing a significant blow to the insurgency’s ability to fund ops.

HELMAND PROVINCE – “We were able to confiscate large amounts of heroine and morphine, and in the process 2 enemy fighters were killed,” said Afghan Gen. Ahmadi, Deputy Minister of Interior for Counter Narcotics. “This is how the Taliban and Al-Qaeda finance their activities,” Ahmadi added.

The drug find is just one example of a larger overall trend for the CNPA. So far this Sept., Afghan counter narcotics forces have seized 14,881 kg (32,738-lbs) of opium, 12,587 kg (27,691-lbs) of morphine, 430 kg (946-lbs) of heroin, and 15,240 kg (33,528-lbs) of hashish. All, of which, has an estimated street value in Afghanistan of $47 million (U.S.) - a significant amount of money denied to the funding of insurgent ops.

Two Afghan law enforcement agencies have the primary responsibility of targeting the narcotics industry. “The Counter Narcotics Police of Afghanistan, and the Afghan Special Interdiction Units have increased their operational capability dramatically over this last year,” said British Royal Navy Rear Admiral Tony Johnstone-Burt, the ISAF director for Counter Narcotics and International Organized Crime.

“Their intel units are focusing on prosecuting the key players in the principal drug trafficking orgs, criminal patronage networks and Afghan Mafia, rather than fixating on sweeping up the drug trade’s foot soldiers and destroying the opium labs alone.” Along with their success destroying elements of the drug trade, Afghanistan’s all-encompassing National Drug Control Strategy (NDCS) also focuses on providing alternative livelihoods for farmers.

The Afghan govt relies on the Ministry of Counter Narcotics, headed by Minister Osmani, to develop a counter narcotics plan and strategy that is mainstreamed through a variety of govt ministries at the national and provincial level.

“ISAF is providing crucial support to the Afghan govt and the Ministry of Counter Narcotics in training, mentoring and advising at every level to create the stability and security required for them to deliver the drug control strategy,” said Johnstone-Burt. That strategy not only targets all the challenges that the narcotics industry creates as specific issues, but it also brings them together as a coherent and coordinated plan across all the relevant ministries.

Due to the recent success of the MoI’s CNPA and the Special Interdiction Units, insurgents will see significant loss in revenue from the narcotics trade. "Their arrest and seizure rate is already over 3 times that of this time last year,” said Johnstone-Burt. “They're having a dramatic impact on the fight against drugs and crime in Afghanistan.”

“With a conviction rate of over 90%, the justice center convicted over 600 drug traffickers last year, and their average sentence was over 18 years each,” said Johnstone-Burt. The Ministry of Agriculture must find alternate crops farmers can grow instead of poppy.

“Herat prov. has been successful with Saffron,” said Greer. “Kandahar has a long tradition of growing pomegranates, and it has been a successful alternative crop there.” The Ministries of Rural Rehabilitation and Development, and Water and Energy are also hard at work ensuring the farmers have the resources necessary to grow, store and sell these alternative crops in a stable market.

“The farmer needs not only to be able to grow realistic and sustainable crops,” said Johnstone-Burt, “but he also needs the water to irrigate them, the energy for cold storage units, the road access to get them to market and an enduring market economy with which to trade, nationally, regionally and internationally.”

“The Helmand Food Zone is the flagship program, which has taken this approach and benefited over 200,000 farmers since 2008, and over 48,000 so far this year,” said Johnstone-Burt. “Poppy cultivation in Helmand has also reduced by 39% over the last 3 years.”

Leaders from Russia, Pakistan and Tajikistan met with Minister Osmani in Kabul, Sept. 5-6, for the Quadrilateral Counter Narcotics Conference, at which the 4 nations agreed to cooperate regionally to combat the drug trade. “They signed a Joint Statement,” said Johnstone-Burt, “in which they committed to take a regional and combined approach in fighting the narcotics industry in the region.”

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DVIDS

Pay Team Ensures Afghan Local Police Stay on Job

Story and photo by Master GySgt. Phil Mehringer

Members of the Afghan Local Police often complain they're not paid enough, or weren't paid at all. Here, the interpreter (left), who wished to remain unidentified for security concerns, informs a new ALP member who was not present for the entire month, that he will only receive a proportion of pay, based on his presence on duty.

NIKAZIA (Sept. 25, 2011) — Providing security in Afghanistan is a coalition effort that centers on the development of ANSF at the local, regional and national levels. Here in Helmand prov., the Afghan Local Police are an intricate part of this security team; their role is to provide security at local villages.

Security starts at the street level, and there's no better way to identify insurgents than by having local citizens point out unknown visitors. Local citizens are the first line of defense in a village, and the cooperation of the locals sets the security tone of an area. The result is the effectiveness of the local police determines the amount of insurgent activity in an area.

“It’s pretty easy for me to figure out who doesn’t belong in my village, when I know everyone living here,” said Master GySgt. Steve Jackson, the senior enlisted NCO for RC-SW’s Stability Ops, C9. “The ALP can ask all the detailed questions, while determining the legitimacy of an outsider visiting the area.”

Ensuring tthat he ALP is paid on time is the responsibility of GySgt. Bryan Tanner, Development Chief, C9, Stability Ops, who visits all of the ALP units in Helmand Prov., monthly.” The process for delivering payments to ALP members is a simple one,” said Tanner, who coordinates his visits with ALP mentoring teams, responsible for the day-to-day ops and training of ALP members.

“On payday the ALP members show up; we meet with them in a Shura tent, call them in one-by-one, and pay them their monthly salary,” said Tanner. Nothing in Afghanistan is simple. Marines say conducting business with the Afghans is often a challenge, and when paying the ALP, “every imaginable problem comes your way,” said Capt. Richard Willing, British Army, an officer-in-charge of an ALP mentoring Team in Nahr-e-Saraj district.

Tanner and Jackson have been handling ALP payments for 6 months now, since taking over the payment program from I Marine Expeditionary Force, and have been through every imaginable pay problem during their tenure. “Don’t be surprised if there are a few upset ones,” said Jackson, before entering the shura tent. "Pay complaints are always present," he explained before beginning to pay the ALP’s. "We're going to teach them how to do payroll themselves, and eventually the ALP will be paid by Afghans with Afghan money.”

However several ALP members weren't present today, and the first problem arose when the ALP cmdr. said that he'll collect their pay on their behalf. This is not allowed under the current pay rules that are designed to combat the theft and corruption so prevalent in Afghan govt agencies.

“You must be present to be paid,” said Tanner, as Willing dealt with other complaints from the Afghan police. They were complaining about unfair pay, not enough pay, and disagreements about the amount of hours worked. Willing was quickly overrun with complaints, and as the drama unfolded, the interpreter assigned to the Marines was saying, “they are ready to quit.”

While Willing and the interpreter struggled to resolve the different pay issues, the local ALP cmdr. provided comments in support of his policeman. “My men are good people and are working so hard,” said Muhomed, who’s in charge of the local 9-man ALP unit. Recently Muhomed said he had to replace several of his men who quit, because they were scared of being attacked by the Taliban.

ALP members must sign a 1-year contract of duty, and be 18-45 years of age. Once accepted, they receive a 21-day non-offensive training program consisting of the use of weaponry, rule of law, searches and seizures, battle drill, and communications. They also receive classes on human rights, ethics and the proper use of force. “For now,” said Muhomed, “security in town is OK.”

Most of the complaints were resolved. “Today they all want to quit, but we’ll have another shura tomorrow,” said Willing, adding that disagreements over pay are a common occurrence. Tanner explained that the funding for the ALP program is carried out through the Cmdr’s Emergency Response Program (CERP), which is a discretionary unit fund, scheduled to end soon. Funding and the responsibility to pay the ALP will be transferred to ANSF Funds, and will be delivered by Afghan security officials. The goal is to have the Afghan govt agencies step up and take responsibility for their own portfolios of services.

As scheduled, Willing’s shura took place the next day, and the captain’s diplomatic skill and relaxed demeanor brought calmness to the previous day’s chaos. The ALP members then continued to man their posts, and provide security to the village.

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DVIDS

Afghan Aviators Soar Toward Self-Reliance

Story and photo by Pfc. Sean Dennison

An ANA AF Mi-17 helicopter rests on the runway at Kandahar Airfield. The ANA's AF recently completed its first unassisted helicopter-borne medical evacuation, flying a stabilized patient from Camp Shorabak in Helmand Prov., to Kandahar Airfield.

KANDAHAR (Sept. 25, 2011) — Currently, the Marines and sailors of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd), in partnership with other NATO CF, provide almost all aviation support in SW Afghanistan. Created in 2008, the AAF currently numbers more than 4,000 personnel and nearly 60 aircraft, including the Mi-17 helicopters used in medevacs. By 2016, the AAF is expected to be fully operationally capable with a force of 140 aircraft, and more than 8,000 troops.

“They’re able to do everything from mission planning to launching missions, all on their own,” said USAF Tech. Sgt. Steven Guillen, a Texas native, and flight medical advisor with the 441st Air Expeditionary Advisory Sqdn, based at Kandahar.

A successful aerial medical evacuation requires well trained pilots, medical staff, and aircraft maintainers. So, when the Afghans began training for aerial medical evacuations of their own troops, they were still receiving significant support from ISAF troops. NATO mentors were responsible for preparing and checking the patients and flights, explained U.K. Royal AF Sqdn. Ldr. Nicola Dyson, who serves in medical ops at Camp Bastion with RC- SW, and a native of Brackley, England.

Over the past several months, the troops of the AAF have become more proficient. “Now you’ve got Afghan pilot instructors,” said Guillen. “They train themselves, basically.” Guillen said that units such as the 441st are spread throughout Afghanistan, with the collective goal to allow the AAF to operate independently.

Today Afghan pilots command their aircraft across the country, and fly daily providing transportation for those in need of medical aid. Locations include Kabul, Kandahar Airfield, Camp Bastion and Camp Shorabak. AAF Maj. Abdulwodood, an instructor pilot, said he has seen continued growth in Afghanistan’s military evolution with support from NATO troops.

Both Afghan and NATO troops agreed the Afghan forces are not yet fully independent. NATO forces currently and will continue to provide logistical oversight and general support for the AAF, though they’ve successfully lessened their dependence on the coalition.

“We’re so fortunate to have Afghan medics and providers,” said USAF Maj. Charla Morgan, the 738th Air Expeditionary Advisory Group flight surgeon, and a Calif. native. In addition to medical proficiency, the NATO and Afghan troops said there are other challenges that the Afghan forces must overcome on their route to autonomy.

“Aircraft is kind of one of the limiting factors – aircraft availability and aircraft maintenance,” said Guillen. “They don’t yet have a whole lot of aircraft and not a whole lot of maintainers.”

Despite challenges, those directly involved with Afghan’s future are optimistic. “It was a good feeling to see the Afghans do this alone,” said Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class James Briggs, a corpsman and mentor to the 215th Afghan Corps surgeons. “The Afghans being able to do their jobs is our ticket home.”

----- In Tarnek wa Jaldak district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader during a security op. The leader reported to senior Taliban facilitators on the movements of Afghan forces, and provided reports on attacks against forces in the region.

East

WARDAK PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed a Taliban leader during a security op in Maidan Shahr district. The leader, Saifullah Rashid, led and participated in numerous attacks against Afghan forces in the Maidan Shahr district. During the op, the SecFor was fired upon by an armed individual. Responding to the immediate threat, the SecFor returned fire killing the individual, later identified as Rashid. The SecFor also detained multiple suspected insurgents.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Mehtar Lam district. The leader is involved in executions and ambushes, as well as the intimidation of the local populace in Mehtar Lam district.

Staff Sgt. Matthew Craig, from HHC, 4th BSTB, 4th AAB, 1st AR Div, escorts a contractor to the IA side of COB Taji, Oct. 1. Soldiers with HHC have been providing security for civilian contractors, who have working with IA personnel, as U.S. forces continue to transition out of Iraq.

COB TAJI — COB Taji is split into 2 sides. On one side there are U.S. forces, who are preparing to transition their partnership with Iraq, to the U.S. State Dept. On the other side is a thriving IA base filled with the commotion of Iraqi soldiers busy at work.

As part of the transition, U.S. forces have been working with civilian contractors to advise the Iraqis in the training of several technical aspects such as, logistics, weapons repair, vehicle maintenance, and technical systems used for training. The contractors rely on U.S. forces to provide security, so they can complete their task.

“We facilitate movement for the contractors, and ensure their safety,” said Staff Sgt. Matthew Craig, the sgt. of the guard with HHC. As the sgt. of the guard, Craig visits the various sites where his soldiers work each day, and coordinates with the contractors to provide the security they need.

“You have to stay flexible,” said Craig. “They might not need anyone in the morning, but later that day they might need everyone we have.” To ensure that every site is safe, the soldiers stay with the contractors until they return to the U.S. side of COS Taji each day. “The people really getting the job done are the NCOs on the sites,” said Craig. “They're doing a really great job, I couldn’t ask for more.”

Sgt. Nathan Foersch sights in on something suspicious during a security patrol, Sept. 30. Foersch, a native of Calif, is the squad leader of 3rd Squad, 4th Plt, Alpha Co, 1st Bn, 3rd Marine Regt. The squad leader used this partnered ANP and Marine patrol as an opportunity to teach his Marines the role of a point man. The point man, whose primary responsibility is finding safe patrol routes, plays a critical role in daily ops for CF in southern Helmand.

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province — Someone always has to go first. In Afghanistan, the Marine who goes first is the point man. He's the first to jump across a canal, enter a farm field, and tread ground potentially laced with IEDs.“Our squad’s area has good security,” said LCpl. Tyler Wilson, a point man with 3rd Squad. “Knowing that there hasn’t been very much IED activity in our area is a good feeling."

The few responsibilities of a point man are of high importance. His first responsibility is sweeping the patrol route for IEDs. Like a metronome, the point man’s arm sways back and forth with a combat metal detector (CMD) attached. The constant, weighted motion causes most point men to build more muscle in their sweeping arm, making them lopsided.

“During the first couple of weeks my arm was numb from sweeping everyday,” said Wilson, a native of Va. There's a certain tone that every Marine dreads. It alerts the CMD user to a metallic presence in his immediate vicinity. “You have to make sure you know how to operate the CMD,” Wilson added. “This beep means there is metal below you, and this beep means the batteries are about to die. You need to know how to get a good sweep, every time.”

The point man’s second task is to find a route. A point man must study his area of op (AO), and make mental notes of natural landmarks. As his deployment progresses, the point man will become more comfortable with his surroundings, and more knowledgeable of every piece in his AO. When his squad leader holds a patrol brief, the point man will eventually no longer needs a map. Carrying a global positioning device for backup, the point man sets the pace and route to the villages his squad will visit on a given patrol.

“You have to know your area and be just as knowledgeable about your area as the squad leader,” Wilson said. The task of finding a safe patrol route is complicated by insurgent IED ops. A point man must think like an insurgent, remaining cognizant of IEDs placed at choke points in trails, or regularly trafficked areas.

While the point man may be in front of the patrol, in the back of his mind lingers the worry of missing an IED. The variety of IEDs found in southern Helmand makes catching everything laid by an insurgent force a nearly impossible task. Despite this reality, point men still hold themselves responsible for every missed IED and, more importantly, for the safety of their fellow Marines.

“I miss something and one of the guys in my squad gets hit,” said Wilson. “That’s definitely a thought that stays in my head — that I could miss something and someone could get hurt.” For Wilson, being a point man came naturally. “Not everybody is knowledgeable of their AO, or can sweep for hours at a time,” said Wilson. “I take pride in my job.”

Members of the ANP and a Marine from 3rd Squad, climb a bank of the Helmand River, during a security patrol.

LCpl. Ryan Meyer momentarily halts during a security patrol. Meyer is a rifleman with 3rd Squad.

LCpl. Ryan Meyer momentarily halts during a security patrol.

LCpl. Tyler Wilson sweeps for IEDs during a security patrol. Wilson is a point man with 3rd Squad.

LCpl. Tyler Wilson sweeps for IEDs during a security patrol.

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DVIDS

Docs Gain Valuable Skills Through Mentorship Program

Story by Staff Sgt. John Wright

Master Sgt. James Jesionowski, 455th Expeditionary Medical Group (EMDG) emergency dept flight chief, explains how to use an electrocardiogram machine to ANA Capt. Nematullah, physician asst., and Senior Capt. Abdul Hadi, dentist, ABP, 1st Zone HQ, as part of the 2-week Afghan Trauma Mentorship Program (ATMP), at Craig Joint Theater Hospital (CJTF), Sept. 22, 2011. The ATMP is a joint effort between coalition partners and airmen from the 455 EMDG, designed to familiarize Afghan medical professionals with modern medical procedures and equipment. (Photo by Senior Airman Krista Rose)

BAGRAM AIR FIELD -- The intensive program was developed in partnership with the Afghanistan National Army Office of the Surgeon General, the Combined Security Transition Command-A, Combined Joint TF-1, TF Medical East and CJTH. "The goal is to mentor Afghan health care professionals at all levels in the delivery of medical care, to promote an independent and self-sustaining medical infrastructure," said Dr. Ezzat, TF MED (E), program director and medical cultural adviser.

One of the Afghan medical professionals that worked side-by-side with U.S. health care providers at CJTH was Capt. Nematullah. "We learn a lot in this mentorship program," Nematullah said through an interpreter. "We saw modern medical equipment, and learned how to use it. It was especially beneficial learning how to use cardiac monitors on patients; how to read them and be aware of the alarms."

Lectures and hands-on instruction during the trauma program included airway mgt., pharmacology, traumatic brain injury, burns, x-ray interpretation and nutrition in trauma patients. "We had good instruction on how to treat a wide range of illnesses and symptoms," the Afghan physician's asst. said. "The hands-on portion was very technical. The teachers here are good providers, and there was a very good selection of lectures."

Senior Capt. Abdul Hadi, dentist, was another of the Afghan professionals enrolled in the course. He welcomed the training, since it provided him a way to use newly acquired modern medical equipment at his unit. "Recently, we received a donation of 11 ambulances from USF-A," Hadi said. "However, nobody knew how to operate the modern equipment in the ambulances, such as the I.V. pumps and defibrillator. I learned how to use this equipment, and will share this with my colleagues."

Hadi's new ambulances will be distributed throughout 9 different kandaks (bns), exponentially increasing the level of care he can help bring to his people. "I'll invite one of the doctors from each kandak to come to the program, and gain valuable skills to provide better health care for our people and soldiers in uniform," Hadi said.

Nematullah also planned to share his new-found knowledge with his fellow Afghan medical professionals. "When we get back to our facilities, we will carry this knowledge to our colleagues, and help them to understand what we've learned," Nematullah said. "We will encourage them to come to this 2-week course, so they can learn to provide better health care to our wounded warriors and soldiers."

Hadi saw the importance of working with U.S. and CF as key to his country establishing a better health care system."The relation between our 2 countries is good," the senior captain said. "We're always helping each other. The U.S. is helping to provide a good health care system for us. They're always trying to help and assist us in the medical field. It's good that we're working together to help solve our problems."

Master Sgt. James Jesionowski explains how to use an electrocardiogram machine to Senior Capt. Abdul Hadi.

Capt. Ryan Iannelli, 27, an AH-1W Super Cobra pilot with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Sqdn 269, and a native of N.J., died Sept. 28, supporting combat ops in Helmand prov. He was posthumously promoted to the rank of captain. In the wartime chapel on Camp Dwyer, where Capt. Ryan Iannelli once worshiped, his fellow Marines gathered to remember him in a ceremony, Oct. 3.

CAMP DWYER - The Marines who served alongside Iannelli described him as a deeply spiritual man who strove to make a difference. “Whether you knew him for 5 minutes or 5 years, he impacted you in a positive way,” said Capt. Scott Neidecker, a Super Cobra pilot with the sqdn. “He was the kind of guy who would do anything for anyone.”

Neidecker said he had known Iannelli since they met at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla., for flight school. “We worked in ops, writing the schedule together,” Neidecker said. “After I checked in with the sqdn, he came out here too, and we still wrote the schedule together. We were really good friends. He was my best friend here.” At the ceremony, Neidecker read Bible verse Matthew 34:40.

Days before Iannelli’s death, Col. Ben Hancock, the ass. wing cmdr. for 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd), traveled to Camp Dwyer to fly with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Sqdn 269, and there he met the young captain. Hancock flew a mission that Iannelli had been slated to go on. “Here comes this old colonel, taking his flight time,” Hancock said. “A lot of guys would have been upset, but he was very gracious, very sharp, very motivated, and very helpful.”

Hancock said Iannelli loaned him his helmet, his flight vest, his supply of cold water, and even his rifle. “It was quite tragic to hear about his loss, but it was even more personally tragic to know, ‘that’s the kid who hosted me down there,’” Hancock said. “By all accounts, he was extremely well respected and liked – an extremely unique individual who was not just a great aviator, but a great person as well. I got the impression Ryan Iannelli was the kind of guy everyone wanted to hang out with.”

Iannelli attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Okla., playing baseball for the university for 4 years. His awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

Sgt. Maj. William Sweeney, the sgt. maj., said, "the Marines of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Sqdn 269 will remember Iannelli’s character, and that will help them as they complete their mission of providing close-air support for CF eradicating terror and violence in SW Afghanistan. Sweeney said, “I think ultimately, this will bring us tighter and closer together.”

Col. Ben Hancock pays his respects to Capt. Ryan Iannelli.

Capt. Scott Neidecker kneels in prayer next to a memorial display for Capt. Ryan Iannelli.

Col. Michael Peterman, the cmdr. of the 101st Sust Bde, re-enlists 31 of his soldiers in front of the brigade HQ, Oct. 2. Nearly 20 more Lifeliners re-enlisted at FOBs in Afghanistan and Iraq.

BAGRAM AIR FIELD – The Lifeliners are spread throughout northern and eastern Afghanistan for OEF, deployed to Iraq helping the retrograde of OND, and in Kuwait working the Theater Gateway. “Where we have soldiers, we have people re-enlisting,” said Master Sgt. Michael Bonfardine, brigade career counselor.

He credits the changes in the options for the new fiscal year that allowed the Lifeliners to re-enlist. “Because they opened up the options, it allowed more soldiers to reenlist before they redeploy,” Bonfardine said. Ultimately, for each of the soldiers, the decision to sign the dotted line and continue in the Army was up to them. Motivation to remain a soldier is different for each of the Lifeliners who re-enlisted today.

“I re-enlisted because it wasn’t time for me to get out of the Army, and I want to take care of my family,” said Spc. Carmen Poe, a human resources specialist for the 101st STB, 101st Sust Bde. Most soldiers are given options when they choose to re-enlist. Even though they're far away from the gates of Fort Campbell now, a lot of the Lifeliners chose to stay with the 101st. “I got stabilization for Fort Campbell,” Poe said. “I want to stay a Screamin’ Eagle. My heart is there in Fort Campbell.”

When the Lifeliners return to Campbell and stay in the coming years, they've plans on furthering their careers. “I got to stay at Fort Campbell and be the senior court reporter at Fort Campbell,” said Sgt. Ana Hairston, a paralegal for the 101st Sust Bde, and an 8-year veteran of the Army. Hairston said that she plans on staying in the Army for 20 years.

Some of the NCOs standing among the ranks, repeating the oath to their country, were doing so for the last time. They reached the point in their military careers, known as indefinite, pledging to stay in until they retire. “I love the Army. I have since I first signed up,” said Sgt. 1st Class Brandon Koone, the personal security team NCO-in-charge, 101st Sust Bde, and 13-year veteran. “I’d like to become a sergeant major, and try and stay in 30 years if I can.”

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 3, 2011

North

KUNDUZ PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed an insurgent during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in Kunduz district, who planned and participated in attacks against Afghan forces. As the Afghan-led SecFor approached the building, an armed insurgent attempted to engage the force and was killed. Numerous suspected insurgents were detained, and a homemade bomb making facility was destroyed.

BALKH PROVINCE -- In Chahar Bolak district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban facilitator during an op. The facilitator managed financing for insurgent activity, and planned and conducted attacks against Afghan forces.

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- In the Panjwa’i district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor conducted an op in search of a Taliban leader who is directly responsible for the movement of suicide bombers and explosives throughout the prov. He also relays guidance from senior Taliban leaders to fighters throughout the region. The SecFor detained numerous suspected insurgents.

----- In a separate op, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader during a security op in Panjwa’i district. The leader facilitated narcotics and funds for insurgent activity throughout both the northern Helmand and western Kandahar provs., and transported chemicals used to construct roadside bombs for attacks in the region. The SecFor detained an additional suspected insurgent.

----- In Arghandab district, yesterday, a combined Afghan and CF discovered a weapons cache consisting of 17 grenades and an RPG.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SeFor killed multiple insurgents during a security op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Dzadran district. The network leader operates along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, between Khost and Paktiya provs., and is responsible for facilitating weapons and coordinating attacks against Afghan forces. Multiple suspected insurgents were detained, and several weapons confiscated during the op.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor conducted an op in search of a Taliban leader in Pul-e ‘Alam district. The leader coordinates roadside bomb and rocket attacks against Afghan forces. The SecFor confiscated an RPG launcher, and detained multiple suspected insurgents during the op.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Trading Places: 6-17 CAV’s on the Move

Story and photos by Spc. Darriel Swatts

An OH-58 Kiowa Warrior flies over the newly graded, fresh graveled air strip, and prepares to park in one of the new stalls, September 29, 2011 on Camp Taji.

CAMP TAJI – Soldiers of the 6th Sqdn, 17th Cav Regt, an Attack-Recon Sqdn., consisting of OH-58 Kiowa Warriors, based out of Fort Wainwright, Alaska, took the lead as the first aviation unit in Iraq to close an FOB. The 6-17 CAV, in conjunction with 4th HBCT, 1st AR Div., closed FOB Diamondback in the northern Iraqi city of Mosul, in Oct., as part of the 40th CAB’s reposturing of forces in preparation for the drawdown of U.S. forces in Iraq.

“The reposturing of forces in Iraq requires large formations and thousands of man hours for each bn. or sqdn., to move to a new location,” said Col. Mitchell Medigovich, cmdr. of the 40th CAB. The 6-17 CAV is one of five aviation bns., that fall under the 40th CAB’s command.

“The 6-17th’s ability to maintain a positive attitude, agile mindset, and a commitment to mission success, allowed them to move from Mosul to Camp Taji and Kirkuk,” Medigovich said. “They did so in a manner that they were able to mitigate the risk and eliminate friction, and still provide first class mission support to their customers.”

The 6-17 CAV faced a momentous challenge, when its Soldiers closed FOB Diamondback and moved out. The unit not only had to move its personnel, maintenance equipment, communication packages and aircraft; but also ensure that there was no drop in aerial coverage to the ground force cmdrs., and make sure everything was in order to hand off to the Iraqis.

"The handover of Diamondback, known to the Iraqis as the Mosul International Airport, had special significance, due to it being an int'l. airport," said Lt. Col. Michael McCurry, cmdr. of the 6-17. “We had to make sure it was secure and operational for civilian flights, when we repostured the American presence, and handed it over to the Iraqi Ministry of Transportation.”

While the 6-17 was moving out of Mosul, it also closed a base at Tal Afar, constructed new landing pads on Camp Taji, made upgrades to its aircraft, all while maintaining and conducting missions throughout USD–Center and North. The unit operated, at one point, out of 5 locations.

“The whole move went very smoothly,” said Capt. Peter Thomas, F Troop cmdr., 6-17. “The Soldiers worked very hard to get everything prepared for the move. Our Soldiers are extremely flexible. They’ve done a great job as we repostured south. These guys have been living out of their rucksacks for the majority of the deployment, because of all the changes and movements they’ve had to endure.”

One important aspect of the 6-17th’s move was to make sure they had areas to park their aircraft, before moving to a new location. The 6-17 had to create a whole new parking area on Camp Taji’s airfield, and that doesn’t go without its challenges. “It was very dusty when we first started,” said Chief Warrant Officer Matthew Paddock, sqdn. safety officer for the 6-17. Paddock said that an OH-58 Kiowa scout helicopter came in off a mission, and caused a brown out where visibility fell to nearly zero due to dust. “Now we’re leveling the ground and putting down a nice layer of gravel, 2 to 4 inches deep. Then we’re going to flatten it out to cut down on the dust, making a better environment for landing.”

The 40th CAB, as a whole, has vacated several major posts, to include: Cobra, Sikes, Tal Afar and Mosul, has consolidated aircraft out of Joint Base Balad and Marez, and removed or handed over several Forward Arming and Refueling Points. However, missions in those areas have not ceased or decreased. The 40th CAB is still providing air support for Soldiers on the ground, and providing security for the citizens of Iraq, as the drawdown of U.S. progresses.

“We’re getting ready to fully hand over security to the Iraqis and transition to them while we leave the country,” said McCurry. “I think that’s a really positive step and something that we need to make sure the world recognizes, because there aren't too many forces around the world that do what we did, and hand things back over to the parent nation with dignity and honor.”

Lt. Col. Michael McCurry, cmdr. of the 6-17 CAV, stands next to his OH-58 Kiowa Warrior on the CAV’s new air strip on Camp Taji, September 29, 2011.

BAGRAM AIR FIELD - Rescuing injured CF in Afghanistan is something the 83rd ERQS is accustomed to doing, but flying over 12,000-foot mountains and refueling in air presented dynamic challenges, during a mission, Sept. 11, 2011. Airmen from the 83 ERQS were pre-positioned at FOB Ghazni to support casualty evacuation ops, after an attack on CF in Wardak Prov., when a "REDCON" call came in that 2 wounded ANA personnel needed to be picked up. The location was high in the Kuh-e-Nilu Mountains. Due to the nature of the injuries and the time, distance and elevation factors, it was going to require some quick and efficient planning.

The 83 ERQS crews immediately made contact with a HC-130P/N aircraft out of Kandahar Airfield, to establish an aerial refueling plan, while the pararescue airmen and the flight engr. began stripping weight off the HH-60 Pave Hawk. They took only the most basic rescue and medical equipment, and decided to limit the number of personnel on the aircraft.

Staff Sgt. Steven Prather, 83 ERQS flight engr., was one of the airmen responsible for figuring out the weight and balance plan for the 'Pedros.' "Knowing we had to go that high, the big challenge was fuel load and fuel burn," the Okla. native said. "I had to run numbers to make sure we could get there. It wasn't a typical mission, but this is what we train for."

As the mission plan rapidly came together, the Pedros found out they were going to get substantial air support in the form of 2 A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft and 2 Army AH-64 Apache helicopters. With heavy air support and an air refueling, Pedro 83 and Pedro 84 pushed out in less than 20 minutes.

The flight lead that day was Maj. Parkin Bryson, 83 ERQS HH-60 Pave Hawk pilot. "The distance was so great, that we had to refuel if we were going to make it," Bryson said. "Those guys made it happen. We could not have done this without them."

Bryson said that aerial refueling in Afghanistan is not typical. It's a dicey affair requiring heightened concentration and skill. "It's one of the more skill-intensive portions of what we do," the Colo. native said. "It's difficult because we were refueling at the upper edge of the refueling envelope. There's very little power. The HC-130 is basically at a stall margin, and we're going as fast as we can go. It was very sporty."

The tanker trails a hose and drogue refueling line behind, and the helicopter pilot has to gently make contact with it using the Pave Hawk's refueling probe. "These machines are designed for much lower altitudes," Bryson said. "It's difficult when you take them to the edge of the operational envelope. The controls become very loose."

The 83 ERQS pilots' training and dedication paid off, as both helicopters successfully refueled, and were then able to fly over the mountain range. Capt. Brian Carey, 83 ERQS combat rescue officer, was the pararescue team cmdr. aboard Pedro 83. As the helicopters neared the pickup point, Carey and Tech. Sgt. Kristopher Burridge, 83 ERQS pararescue team leader, began finalizing their plans. "We had been told it was a high-threat zone," Carey said. "It was a low-lying area in a bowl at 8,500 feet, and a village all around it. There was heavy machine gun fire coming from the mountains to the east."

Bryson lead his helicopters on a couple of low passes over the area to determine the threat level, as the PJs scanned their sectors. "One of the things that's difficult about Afghanistan is that you never really know what the dynamic on the ground is," Bryson said. "When insurgents hear air power overhead, they'll go to ground."

Burridge, who hails from Fla., analyzed the situation. "As we were coming in, I scanned the area for threats," he said. "I noticed the town was empty, which is a little unusual for that time of day; so, we had some concerns about that. My primary objective was making sure my team was safe."

Due to the overwhelming air support at their disposal, the Pedros decided to send their lead aircraft in (Pedro 83) as Pedro 84 provided security. However, landing at the thin air of 8,500 feet required that Bryson perform a "roll-on- landing," instead of a typical hover-landing. A roll-on landing requires a pilot to skillfully land with forward momentum.

Carey and Burridge had eyes on the ANA patients as Bryson performed the landing. "They were hunkered down on the NW corner of a building, since fire was coming from the east," Carey, a Calif. native said. "They were packaged, ready to go, and heading towards the aircraft."

Burridge and his cmdr. were out of their tie-ins and off the aircraft in seconds, as the helicopter rolled to a stop. "Burridge and I stayed together until they came toward us," Carey said. "We then fanned out on both sides to provide security for them." ANA personnel were carrying one patient on a litter and another piggyback style, and quickly ran to the American forces waiting to airlift them to better medical care.

Burridge provided security as Carey helped load the patients into the Pave Hawk. "We're moving as fast as we can to get off the ground," Carey said. "Let's land, get these guys, and get out." All told, they were on the ground less than 3 minutes.

"Once onboard, we started assessing and treating them," Burridge said. "We addressed the immediate life threats, and from there, started supportive care." The 83 ERQS airmen said that seeing all the pieces of the mission come together was rewarding. "We train for this type of mission a lot, and to see it come together within a matter of 10 to 15 minutes - and to go out and execute it - was pretty awesome," Carey said. "We used assets from all over the theater. It couldn't have been more perfect."

Burridge echoed his team cmdr's words. "It's rewarding to be out there for the patients," Burridge said. "It's rewarding to train your guys, and see them execute the mission. The more and more you do it, and you see the faces of the people you pick up, it definitely brings it home that you're a big influence here. When I'm old and gray, I'll look back on these as some of the best days of my life."

Bryson said that the mission emphasized something he sees quite often in Afghanistan. "Lately, I've seen the Afghans really take an active part in the fighting," Bryson said. "Anything we can do to support them, and take them back to the medical care they need ... it's a good thing for us to contribute to their cause."

Maj. Parkin Bryson poses for a photo with his aircraft, Sept. 26, 2011.

A pararescue airman from the 83rd ERS scrambles inside a HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter at Bagram Air Field, after receiving an alert call.

Two HH-60G Pave Hawks had to fly over 12,000-foot mountains and perform an aerial refueling, like the one shown here. (Photo by Airman 1st Class Veronica Pierce)

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Blackanthem Military News

504th BSB Female Engagement Team Makes a Positive Impact

By Spc. Darryl Montgomery

Women from around the Spin Boldak region gathered Sept. 18, to attend a shura being held for them at the Spin Boldak District Center, organized by Soldiers from Combined TF Viper. During the shura, the women were able to address issues they have within their communities, and learn about the importance of health and education. (Army photos by Spc. Kristina Truluck)

FOB SPIN BOLDAK -- The 2nd Sqdn, 38th Cav Regt of the 504th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade (BSB) attended the shura, after an invitation was offered from the Spin Boldak District Gov. Ghani. "Approx 140 Afghan women and 40 Afghan children attended to discuss issues of concern with local leaders," according to Capt. Katherine Redding.

Other notable attendees included the Provincial Directorate of Women's Affairs (DoWA), Mim Achackyzi; the District Health Officer, and local midwives. Among the security detail was a female AUP officer, and 16 females from U.S. Army wearing colorful scarves to help identify them.

The female Soldiers involved are part of the Army's new FET program, designed to help reach out to the women and children of Afghanistan. As the local women started arriving for the meeting, Redding said several of them stated how thankful they were to be given the opportunity of having a female shura. They also mentioned not believing the ISAF would really be there. "They didn't know there would be so many women in the ISAF," Redding said. "They commented how nice it was that we all had scarves on, because it's hard for them to identify our females from our males without them."

The women's main issues of concern were health and education. They said their biggest worry was for the health of their children, due to the lack of food and water. These women were willing to risk their lives, and face intimidation, dishonor, and persecution by attending the shura to make a difference for the women in Spin Boldak.

During the meeting, the Spin Boldak District Gov. Ghani, spoke to the women about the importance of education and health for the children of Spin Boldak, who, he said, are the future. The DoWA, Mim Achackyzi, also discussed how important it is for these women to have a place to go for their troubles in the district.

At the conclusion of the meeting, lunch was served, and the women were given humanitarian assistance.

Women are given humanitarian aid. While attending the shura, the women learned simple tips that could help improve their health.

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DVIDS

82nd Airborne Division Takes Command of Regional Command South

Story by Sgt. 1st Class Lyndon Miller

Army Maj. Gen. James Huggins, Jr., and Command Sgt. Maj. Bryant Lambert, the incoming RC-South and 82nd AD cmdr. and command sgt. maj., unfurl their unit's colors, during a transfer of authority on Kandahar Airfield, Oct. 1. This ceremony marked the end of a yearlong tour for 10th Mtn Div (LI), and the unrolling of the 82nd flag officially marked the presence of new division leadership in RC-South. (Photos by Spc. Amanda Hils)

Lt. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, cmdr., ISAF Joint Command, and reviewing officer for the ceremony, addressed the multi-national audience first, emphasizing the partnership of Afghanistan and CF, and the positive effect of their efforts. "Our forces, working shoulder to shoulder, 'shanah ba shanah,' Scaparrotti said, using the Afghan phrase, "train, fight, die and win along-side each other. Together, we're creating a better future for the people of Afghanistan," he said.

Following Scaparrotti's remarks, Terry welcomed the audience and offered his parting thoughts. "Salam Alaikum," he said, "and peace be upon you," citing the traditional Muslim greeting. Referring to the overall purpose here, Terry said, "this is not about CF, this is about the Afghan SecFor increasingly taking the lead."

Terry went on to say that "collectively ANSF have reason to be proud and stand tall. In the 4 provs. of Kandahar, Uruzgan, Zabul, and Daykundi, they have "thwarted hundreds of attacks, and beaten back a weakening, but still very violent enemy. An increase in economic activity in the RC-(S) region," Terry said, "is evidence of stability and progress, that melons and pomegranates have been shipped through Kandahar Airfield to global markets."

Once Terry's remarks were complete, Huggins walked up to the platform and spoke. "Our task will be to continue to build on the progress of our ANSF and coalition partners, that the Afghans can take full control of their future in the lead, in their country," Huggins said. "Afghans will achieve sustainable economic development, which will result in the peaceful, prosperous and independent future of their country," he said.

Huggins also said that 2 key factors for success over the next year will be working to develop governance and security, and building local inclusive govts, "an area where I've already seen much progress. It's the Afghan people, themselves," Huggins continued, "who will achieve the form of govt that is accountable to the people, a govt they deserve."

Army Lt. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti speaks to the incoming and outgoing leadership of RC-South.

Robert Josleyn, an instructor and curriculum developer for the Protective Security Detail (PSD) course, congratulates a student of the PSD class during a graduation ceremony at Camp Leatherneck, Sept. 29. The PSD 12-day course taught the Afghan police a variety of skills to help prepare them to thwart assassination attempts of the officials they'll be protecting, including close-quarter marksmanship, battle tactics, tactical driving and protective security formations.

CAMP LEATHERNECK -- The PSD course taught the 35 members of the Afghan Uniformed and Border Police, how to provide personal security for high profile officials, similar to the role U.S. Secret Service details provide for American govt officials. “Assassinations of political and military leaders are common in Afghanistan, which deteriorates the security for Helmand prov.,” said Robert Josleyn. "The police in attendance worked long, hard hours, but remained vigilant and enthusiastic throughout the course, and the instructors were impressed throughout the training process," said Josleyn.

“Considering how quick the course was, the students really did pick up all the lessons we taught very fast,” said 1st Lt. Thomas Malone, the JSAS training team’s leader, and a Md. native. “Especially with the tactical driving session, many of the students had never driven before, but now they can operate a vehicle in a variety of tactical situations.”

Other instructors were impressed by the level of enthusiasm displayed by the students. “The students always enjoy weapons training,” said 2nd Lt. Abdul Wahab, a PSD instructor from the Afghan Interior Ministry. “Getting hands-on with the various weapons and tactics is always popular amongst the soldiers. It builds their confidence and helps them become more capable as personal security police officers.”

“The Joint Sustainment Academy SW (JSAS) instructors want Afghanistan to become a prosperous nation,” added Terry Walker, the training advisor for JSAS, explaining the relevance of the course. “In order for this to happen, Afghan leaders have to be able to safely interact with the public to know their concerns. The students of this course are critical for this, because they provide the security that allows this process to take place. This course and its instructors are constantly adapting to meet emerging requirements that the ANSF need to save lives and defend their leaders.”

PAKTIYA PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured the senior Haqqani network leader in Afghanistan, during a security op in Jani Khel district, Sept. 27. SecFor detained Haji Mali Khan, uncle of Siraj and Badruddin Haqqani. He was one of the highest ranking members of the Haqqani network, and a revered elder of the Haqqani clan.

He reportedly worked directly under Siraj Haqqani, managed bases, and had oversight of ops in both Afghanistan and Pakistan. Mali Khan moved forces from Pakistan to Afghanistan to conduct terrorist activity. Jalaluddin Haqqani consistently placed Mali Khan in positions of high importance.

Mali Khan served as an emissary between the late Baitullah Mahsud, and senior leaders within the Haqqani leadership. Before he was killed last year, Mahsud was the Tehrik Taliban Pakistan top leader who provided foreign fighters, including Uzbeks, to the Taliban and Haqqani networks. He led 20,000 pro-Taliban militants, and organized attacks against Pakistani and Afghan targets. Mahsud was blamed for the Dec. 2007 assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

In the past year, Haji Mali Khan established a militant camp in Mangal tribal lands in Paktiya prov., coordinated the transfer of money for insurgents ops, and facilitated the acquisition of supplies. Although he was heavily armed during the op that led to his capture, Mali Khan submitted to the SecFor without incident or resistance.

Multiple additional insurgents were detained during the security op, to include Mali Khan’s deputy and body guard. The Haqqani network and its safe havens remain a top priority for Afghan and CF. SecFor have conducted more than 500 ops so far in 2011, in an effort to disrupt the Haqqani network leadership, resulting in the death of 20 network facilitators, and the capture of nearly 300 insurgent leaders and 1,300 suspected Haqqani insurgents.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 2, 2011

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- In Panjwa’i district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a Taliban leader and a suspected insurgent during a security op. The leader prepares homemade explosives for attacks in Kandahar City. He is responsible for conducting multiple roadside bomb attacks, acquiring funds and ammo for other insurgent leaders, and facilitating attacks targeting Afghan forces. The SecFor also seized 10-lbs (4.5 kg) of heroin.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in Panjwa’i district. The facilitator coordinates with other Taliban leaders to plan attacks using homemade explosives throughout the region.

East

WARDAK PROVINCE — In Maidan Shahr district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed multiple insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator. The facilitator leads and participates in attacks against Afghan forces. The SecFor was fired upon by several armed individuals barricaded inside a building. Responding to the immediate threat, the SecFor returned fire, killing the insurgents.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- A coalition SecFor discovered an extensive weapons cache in Sherzad district, yesterday. The SecFor also detained a few suspected insurgents. The cache consisted of multiple rifles, pistols, grenades, ammo, IED materials, a mine, 8-lbs (4 kg) of opium, and various military clothing items.

KHOST PROVINCE -- In Sabari district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a Haqqani network leader and several suspected insurgents, during a security op. The network leader was involved in the coordination and facilitation of mines, mortars, RPGs, and roadside bomb materials in the region. Multiple weapons, including AK-47 assault rifles and grenades, were seized.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Charkh district. The leader coordinates attacks against Afghan forces, and facilitates the distribution of roadside bombs and mortar rounds throughout the region.

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IRAQI STORIES:

United States Forces – Iraq

Lt. Gen. Caslen Assumes Command of Nato Training Mission-I

Story by Staff Sgt. Edward Daileg

Army Lt. Gen. Robert Caslen Jr. (center) assumed command of the NATO Training Mission-Iraq from Army Lt. Gen. Michael Ferriter (right) in a change of command ceremony, led by Army General Lloyd Austin III (left), USF-Iraq Comm. Gen., at FOB Union III, Oct. 1. The ceremony also marked the official activation of the Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq. The OSC-I will continue the security assistance and cooperation relationship with Iraq, to assist the GoI with advising, training, assisting and equipping their SecFor. (Photos by John Helms)

BAGHDAD – “We welcome a significant milestone in our Iraq campaign by activating the OSC-I,” said Gen. Lloyd Austin III, reviewing officer of the ceremony. “As we continue to honor the security agreement by drawing down our SecFor, OSC-I will become the core of our enduring military-to-military relationship with Iraq over the years to come,” he added.

“Today’s establishment of the OSC-I and the transfer of the NATO Training Mission (NTM), marks a significant transition and the progress of our mission in Iraq, as well as the commitment of the U.S. and the NATO partner countries, for a strategic and enduring relationship with the GoI and its people,” said Caslen.

After the passing of the NTM-I colors, Austin spoke highly of Caslen, and addressed the challenges ahead. “Lt. Gen. Caslen’s proven talents as a leader, trainer and educator make him extremely well suited for this important assignment,” said Austin. “The task ahead will be challenging, but I know that you're more than capable,” said Austin to Caslen. “I can't think of a better person to lead this org. into the next phase of our military leadership with Iraq. You're the right person at the right place, at the right time,” he added.

Caslen takes command with multiple responsibilities as the cmdr. of the NTM-I, USF-I deputy comm. gen. (advising and training) and the chief of OSC-I, to continue the training and advising mission, as U.S. Forces – Iraq withdraw from Iraq by the end of this year. “I am honored to serve as cmdr. of the NATO Mission, as we orchestrate training and professional military education for Iraq’s leaders and its SecFor,” said Caslen.

As the ceremony drew to a close, Caslen highlighted the role of NTM-I and OSC-I, and their importance to the development of Iraq and the Middle East. “Iraq’s partnership with NATO is significant. This relationship not only provides Iraq with superb trainers and educators, but it also provides legitimacy among the 28 NATO nations in a unique status within the Middle East region, as a partner in the international community of nations,” said Caslen.

“It's clear that a stable, secure and self-ran Iraq is not only important for Iraq, but for the entire region,” Caslen continued. “I recognize the importance of both NTM-I and OSC-I to assist Iraq in developing the necessary defense capabilities to secure this great nation.”

The ceremony also marked the departure of Ferriter, who completed his 3rd combat tour in Iraq, to include his 1st 2 tours as a Deputy Comm. Gen. (Ops), Multi-National Corps - Iraq, and the most recent one as the Deputy Comm. Gen. (Advising & Training).

The most recent success is the GoI’s purchase of F-16 multi-role fighter aircrafts, along with the associated training, maintenance and sustainment packages, which represents a significant advancement for the IqAF and the enduring relationship between the U.S. and Iraqi govts.

“Lt. Gen. Ferriter and his team have flawlessly managed one of the most robust foreign military sales programs in the world,” said Austin. “From M1A1 tanks to patrol boats and transport aircrafts, they delivered the total package of instruction maintenance and support necessary for the ISF.”

“The remarkable accomplishments of your team under your inspired leadership have strengthened relationships with our Iraqi, NATO, and U.S. Embassy partners, and have set the conditions for our continued professionalization of the ISF,” said Austin.

BAGHDAD – "It’s time to pack up the jars of pickled infant animals, cases of insect specimen, and miniature models," said Gil Grissom. A new forensics team is in town. Insert a witty one-liner, immediately follow it with a video montage of some crime scene investigating, add some lyrics from a Who song, and CBS has its newest installment of its long-running law enforcement program - CSI: Baghdad.

All right, so an Iraq-themed crime scene drama may not be hitting the prime-time television market anytime soon. However, the progress of Iraqi forensic police officers learning evidence testing techniques and procedures is anything, but a scripted piece of fiction. Officers with Iraq’s Federal Police have been working with International Narcotic and Law Enforcement contractors in a series of Tool Marking and Firearms, Chemical, and DNA forensics classes, at the Baghdad Police College, throughout the month of Sept. The courses are designed to create qualified individuals to operate self-sustaining forensics labs around the country.

To help create the best learning environment, forensic law enforcement veterans, with several years of specialized lab experience in their respective field, teach each course. While their reasons for coming to Iraq are personal, the expectations of the end-state are unanimous: teach forensic scientists and create a lab which allows for adequate and fair processing of evidence, to prove guilt or innocence in a court of law.

"This country used to be a place where suspects would get beaten until they confessed to a crime," said Chris Binion, a chemical forensics teacher, "but now evidence, judges, and rule of law dominate the judicial system. It’s not perfect yet, but it’s getting better,” Binion said, a native of Ky.

"These courses are helping improve the system, because unlike what the television program may portray, crime scene scientists are not jacks-of-all-trades, but rather extremely knowledgeable subject matter experts in their particular field," said Shane Gaghan, a firearms and tool marks instructor.

Students of the Chemistry Forensics course learn about chemical compositions, and how knowing what something is made of can determine where it came from, and who made it. Prominent cases in Iraq involve IEDs, suicide bombers, and small arms fire attacks. The ability to identify chemical compositions of the various explosive components used in these attacks, can help determine where the materials were manufactured, and could potentially provide evidence for a suspect’s conviction.

Much like the unique composition of chemicals used to make explosives, the tools used to make them, and the weapons used in small arms fire attacks, make unique striation marks on the devices, bullets and shells, respectively. Students of the Firearms and Tool Marking Forensics course learn how to use scientific instruments to determine if bullets and shells collected at a crime scene, or marks on the fragments of an explosive device, match the weapon or tools owned by a suspect. “Firearms and tool marks is one of the oldest forensic techniques,” said Gaghan, a retired 10-year Philadelphia police veteran. “People here have always been doing this. There was just a need to update technology and skill sets.”

"Students of the DNA Forensic Course learn how to recover this microscopic material from bodily fluids, such as blood, saliva, and semen, left behind at crime scenes," said Page Bowlus, a DNA forensics instructor. "The material is then multiplied, using a chemical process, into a quantifiable amount for a variety of tests to be run."

Binion, Gaghan, Bowlus, and the rest of their team agree that the labs they’ve helped establish here technologically, rival any lab found in the U.S. However, one challenge the team and students face is Baghdad’s electrical infrastructure, which is unable to consistently handle the intense power requirements of the equipment. “The infrastructure has been an issue to support the lab equipment,” said Dale Price, a DNA Forensic instructor. “It’s not easy work; it’s a challenge. But, it’s a reward to see all the progress we've made.”

This setback doesn’t stop the student’s overwhelming desire to learn, and the teachers’ ability to adapt to the situation, as the city’s workers continue to build and increase its infrastructure capabilities. “The people we teach have such a desire to learn,” said Bowlus, a Miss. native. This desire to learn, in conjunction with the teachers’ expertise, creates a recipe for the long-term success of Iraq’s law enforcement and crime scene investigation, as a self-sustaining force to serve and protect the people of their country.

Sulecin, Poland – Ghazni city mayor Sayed Basir and Polish army Capt. Kotlarz recently visited a farm near Zagan, Poland. Several Afghan clerics from Ghazni prov., and Kabul City recently visited Poland to learn about mgt., and how to improve governance in their region, while cooperating with police, army, fire service, and other public institutions. Three sub-govs. from Ghazni prov., director of Crisis Mgt. Dept, mayor of Ghazni city, and chief of administration from Kabul were invited to Poland, because their regions are some of the most developed.

GHAZNI PROVINCE – “Each day, we can see their commitment to work for the community and region of the eastern part of Afghanistan. We hope that after their return, they'll be more motivated to continue good work,” said Edyta Górlicka, a Ghazni PRT specialist.

Afghan clerics had the opportunity to see projects in Poland, similar to what they plan to do in their regions. “We not only want to build a new dam, landfills, roads, schools, hospitals and other infrastructures; we want to show them, how to effectively manage them also,” said Lt. Col. Kiszkowiak, Ghazni PRT deputy chief.

While in Poland the sub-govs. visited the Polish police command, fire brigade and landfill. They also talked about the monitoring and prevention of potential threats, and disasters such as floods or avalanches. “For us, all meetings are a great experience," said Ghazni City Mayor Noory. “Now, we know more about our job; we see the similarities and differences. I’m convinced that one day Afghanistan will be safe, and that the Afghan administration will work the same as the Polish.”

The visit to Poland was organized by the Polish Embassy in Kabul, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Polish TF White Eagle.

Afghan sub-gov. Isa from Khwaja, and sub-gov. Hedayat from Malistan, and Polish Army Capt. Kotlarz recently visited a modern landfill in Sulecin, Poland.

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DVIDS

Ninety Women Registered for Radio Literacy Program

BY ISAF Joint Command PAO

MAIWAND DISTRICT -- In Maiwand district of Kandahar prov., where the female literacy rate is 7%, books and radios were distributed to women and girls who would not otherwise have the opportunity to study Pashto, their native language. The distribution, conducted by soldiers with Combined TF (CTF) Spartan's 2nd Bn, 34th AR Regt, took place on 2 dates, during which a total of 90 radios and books were distributed. Future dates are planned with a goal of reaching 350 women in the villages of Maiwand.

Haji Bayan, a local business leader, notified the women and brought them to the distribution location. Additional women, who had heard about the program via word-of-mouth, also walked to the site. "This program is very important for the women in this area, since they primarily stay at home, and have very few opportunities for education," said Bayan.Literacy lessons are broadcast 3 times daily each week via a local radio station. Women and girls gather in their homes to follow the lessons over a 15-week period.

Staff Sgt. Jacob Mowry, a team leader with the info team running the campaign, says, "it's very important to engage the females of Maiwand. Often we ignore the significant role women play in this culture, and when you ignore the women, you're ignoring half of the population. The radio literacy program allows us to reach out to that other half."

Cynthia Hogle, a civilian social scientist serving on the CTF Spartan's Human Terrain Team (HTT) to conduct field interviews, works directly with the local Afghan women, to learn how the U.S. military can address their needs. The gathering of women for the Radio Literacy registration provides an opportunity to engage the women regarding multiple topics.

Through their talks with Hogle, the women have requested a women's center and a girls' school. Both of these projects are currently being developed by Afghan and CF leaders for building in Maiwand district. Hogle says that even though a stigma exists among Afghan women, that they use the opportunity to voice their opinions and needs with other women.

"The women know what they want, and aren't afraid to ask for it," said Hogle. "Contrary to cultural perception, many men in the area want these opportunities for their wives and daughters just as much." There does remain, however, a large population of traditionally conservative men, often forcing the women in these families to take risks to access such opportunities. One woman, who fears her husband, stated she "made an excuse to her husband," regarding where she needed to go, so that she could get her radio and book.

The Radio Literacy Program was developed as part of the "Knowledge is Light" campaign to increase the level of literacy in Afghanistan, as part of the overall counterinsurgency (COIN) fight. The RLP was also developed specifically for women, so they could learn how to read at home, and at the same time be able to help their children learn how to read. The program has been a success in Kandahar City, and is now being pushed out to some of the more rural areas of Afghanistan.

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DVIDS

Virginia Guard Soldier Late to his own Promotion Ceremony

Story and photos by Sgt. Francis O'Brien

NCOs of the Virginia Army N.G., 116th IBCT “Stonewall Brigade” celebrate the promotion of Master Sgt. Chris Tomlinson, a native Va., by holding him down for a few friendly thumps at FOB Lagman, Sept. 2. Good natured thumping is a tradition for most newly promoted NCOs. The Staunton-based 116th is deployed to Zabul prov., conducting COIN ops as part of OEF.

ZABUL PROVINCE – Pfc. John Gatling with the Virginia Army N.G. was late to a very special formation, Aug. 29: his own promotion. “Maybe he should remain an E-3 for another day,” said Capt. Stephen Carey, from Va., 116th HHC cmdr., to the assembled crowd.

Gatling, a human resources specialist from Va., came running up shortly thereafter. He'd been working so diligently that he couldn’t leave his current mission for the important ceremony. “Congratulations,” said Carey. “It’s always fun to take a break … take some time to recognize a soldier with such great potential as Spc. Gatling.”

After Gatling’s rank was replaced, and he'd bathed in the enthusiastic applause of the crowd, Carey issued a familiar and dreaded basic training command: “Front leaning rest position … move! In cadence …”

Gatling performed pushups, getting “smoked” as it’s called in the Army, at his own promotion ceremony. It was a day that Gatling and many others will remember as part of their deployment. “The pushups caught me off guard,” said Gatling. “It’s something I’ll always remember. Getting promoted feels great. I feel new opportunities coming my way, and I can finally join the ranks of the specialists.”

Newly promoted Spc. John Gatling, is “smoked” at his own promotion ceremony for being late. “Smoked” is Army slang for corrective physical training commonly administered in basic training.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

GoA Reaches out to Citizens in Zormat District

Story and photos by AF 1st. Lt. Cammie Quinn, Paktya PRT

Paktya Prov. Deputy Gov. Mangal, discusses governance in the prov., during a Zormat district shura, Sept. 26. The provincial govt team travelled to Zormat to increase awareness and gain perspective in Zormat District.

PAKTYA PROVINCE – The GoA with support from the Paktya PRT, and TF Creek enhanced communication between provincial and village leaders in Zormat district ,during a govt outreach mission, to provide a united military, civil and security presence. Zormat District leaders host a bi-monthly shura, or meeting, to provide village elders a venue to discuss current local events, concerns and potential improvements for the district.

The provincial leadership participated in the meeting to identify avenues for the govt to provide assistance and solutions for increased sustainability. “Everyone in Paktya Prov. has problems,” Paktya Deputy Gov. Mangal, said to shura attendees. “As leaders, we can't solve problems by sitting in our chairs. We have to talk to villagers and hear their concerns. We're here to listen to you and find solutions for your problems,” he added.

Afghanistan has 34 provs., each divided into small districts. Paktya Prov. has 13 districts, with govt reps in each district who are dedicated to improving the lives of Afghan citizens. Provincial line directorates, subordinate to the Ministries in Kabul, have basic service delivery responsibility in key sectors such as health, public works, and info and culture.

The provincial govt, in partnership with Paktya PRT, travels to various districts in Paktya to address local needs, and provide education about the national govt. “The govt cannot succeed without the support of its people,” Mangal said. “This is our country. Let’s stand together with one hand in unity for future generations.”

Security remains a top concern for Paktya provincial leadership. During the shura, Zormat villagers spoke about increasing security in the prov., by continuing to develop and enhance relationships with the ANSF through joint training, plans and missions.

“Afghan and CF work together well,” Rahamd Noori, a village elder from Zormat, said in reference to joint security missions. “We should continue the mutual respect between the ANSF and CF.” A joint district ops center in Zormat is scheduled to open soon, and will be the first of its kind in Afghanistan. The center will provide a common operational picture across the ANSF, enabling agencies to respond to security and emergency situations more effectively.

"The ops center will provide a central location for all Afghan security members in Zormat, to maintain situational awareness, allowing the ANSF to coordinate and respond to emergencies," said Maj. Ahmin, ANA EO. “We've scheduled day and night shifts to perform ops over a 24-hour period,” he added.

"Along with security comes economic development," said Lt. Col. James Forand, Paktya PRT cmdr. from Mass. Paktya PRT is dedicated to partnering with the GoA, to continue construction projects in areas such as Zormat.

“Our team facilitates the reconstruction efforts of GoA in Paktya Prov.,” he added. “We have a strong, honest partnership with the local leaders of the GoA, and support the leadership as they work to develop a more stable and secure prov.”

Paktya PRT is comprised of more than 75 military members representing active duty AF, Army, Army Reserves and Army N.G. The team has reps from the U.S. Dept of State, U.S. Dept of Agriculture, and USAID.

ANA Maj. Ahmin (right), ANA EO, discusses the scheduled opening of a joint district ops center. "The center will provide a central location for all Afghan security members in Zormat to coordinate and respond to emergencies," Ahmin said.

Medical providers from the Jaji District hospital, Paktya Prov., receive a lecture covering hygiene procedures, during a medical training seminar, Sept. 25-28. More than 20 providers attended the training hosted by the ANA and CF, with the goal of creating a sustainable healthcare system for district citizens.

PAKTYA PROVINCE - Training was hosted by members of the ANA, Paktya PRT, Paktya Regional Hospital's Medical Training Team, Female Training Team, and CF at COP Herrera. A team of 5 ANA doctors with specialties in anesthesia, intensive care unit, preventive medicine, general surgery, emergency room nursing, and dentistry conducted the 4-day training. The 20-hour ANA-taught course was attended by more than 20 Doctors, nurses and first responders from the district hospital.

“The course was created to facilitate the ANA medical providers in sharing their professional medical knowledge in trauma care with local hospital providers,” said AF Capt. Benjamin McGarvery, Paktya PRT physician’s asst., and a native of Penn. “Jaji District has a history of seeing a lot of trauma patients, and we’re hoping this course helps save lives.”

For more than a year, an ultrasound machine sat in its box, only to be used when a doctor from another area was called in to operate it. “ANA Doctors provided ultrasound training to both Jaji doctors and nurses, as well as the local mid-wives, giving them the ability to perform the ultrasounds themselves,” McGarvey said. “Having this ability will enable them to spot problems with pregnancies, as well as perform ultrasounds during traumas to spot problems like blood clots.”

This training also enabled CF to fulfill a long-standing promise to the district. “We’re hopeful that by bringing the ANA doctors out and fulfilling this promise, it lays the groundwork for a partnership that will last well into the future,” McGarvey said. “We want the shura members and the doctors to trust in the ANA and CF.”

The 30-bed district hospital currently offers basic services like an emergency room, radiology, basic surgeries and obstetrics. “This training builds a bridge which opens the lines of communication between the doctors of the regional hospital and the ANA,” said AF Lt. Col Stephen Sales, MTT lead, from Ind. “They've been taking classes and getting on-the-job training for approx 4 years.”

“I thought this training was very goo, and the topics covered were very useful,” said Dr. Shahwali Qurishi, Jaji District hospital general surgeon. “I’m very grateful the ANA was able to come and teach us the material in our own language; it helps us understand it better.”

The training led to a return trip being planned for later this year, and its success also brought training requests from other Paktya districts.

An ANA doctor talks a Jaji District doctor through the process of intubating a patient using a lighted scope.

Doctors from the Jaji District hospital happily practice placing a splint on another doctor’s leg.

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 1, 2011

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a Taliban leader, and killed multiple insurgents in Maiwand district. The leader operated in Panjwa’i district and traveled frequently to Kandahar City. He was in charge of a large group of fighters, and purchased multiple weapons each month for use in attacks throughout the region. The SecFor detained several suspected insurgents, and confiscated 20-lbs (9 kg) of opium and multiple weapons during the op.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor conducted an op in search of a Taliban leader in Now Zad district. The leader is responsible for multiple roadside bomb attacks, acquiring funds and ammo for other insurgent leaders, and facilitating attacks against Afghan forces. The SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents.

----- In Kajaki district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor conducted an op in search of a Taliban leader. The leader facilitates narcotics, as well as funding for insurgent activity in Helmand and Kandahar provs. Additionally, he constructs roadside bombs for use in attacks throughout the region. The SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents.

East

KHOST PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed 2 insurgents during a security op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Musa Khel district. The network leader facilitates weapons, as well as coordinates attacks against Afghan forces along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border between Khost and Paktiya provs. The insurgents were killed after firing an RPG at the SecFor, during the op. One suspected insurgent was detained and multiple weapons were confiscated, including RPG launchers, grenades, a recoilless rifle, ammo and roadside bomb making materials.

WARDAK PROVINCE -- In Nerkh district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent during an op in search of a Taliban leader. The leader coordinates attacks against the local populace and Afghan forces in the region.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Qarghah’i district. The leader is responsible for murder, kidnapping and the manufacturing and facilitation of roadside bombs used in attacks against Afghan forces.

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IRAQI STORIES:

'Dagger' Brigade Reflects on Experiences at JSS Justice as base transfers to GoI

Story and photos by Capt. Adam Westbrook

IA and local civilian leaders walk through a palm grove, Sept. 20 at JSS Justice. JSS Justice, which has been called many names and hosted many U.S. units over the years, most recently the 2nd “Dagger” AAB, has been signed over to the full control of the GoI.

BAGHDAD — Just east of one of the most sacred Shiite mosques in the world, tucked away in one the many pockets of land formed by time and the ever-changing Tigris River, sits Joint Security Station Justice, a symbolic piece of history for American forces who have operated in Iraq over the past several years.

In addition to being the site of the execution of Saddam Hussein and several of his regime’s major figures, the base has been home to a long list of units for the better part of a decade. However, as OND draws to an end and ISF take ever-greater responsibility for their nation’s protection, the need to further occupy JSS Justice is no longer there. With that in mind, soldiers with C Troop “Comanche,” 5th “Longknife” Sqdn., carried out the task of closing the JSS and signing it back over to the GoI.

“It was simply known as the Old Iraqi Defense Intel Agency compound when I was first here,” said Sgt. 1st Class John Varney, a plt. sgt., with HHT, 5th Sqdn., and a Kan. native, who was assigned to JSS Justice in 2003 with another unit. That title didn't stick for very long though. Several months and many missions after his arrival, the base had a new name. “Spc. Simeon Hunte was killed near Ghaziliyah in 2003,” said Varney. “The soldier’s death had a deep impact within the unit [1st Bn, 13th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, 1st AR Div, and as a result, it was then decided that the base be named in honor of the fallen soldier, giving rise to a new title, Camp Hunte.”

Regardless of what it was called, the base’s location and operational value was never challenged. It always provided a temporary, protective home for a countless number of soldiers over the span of its existence, while they worked to improve Iraq’s security situation.

The base served as a home to not only American soldiers, but Iraqi personnel as well. “I remember a lot of the Iraqis who worked on the FOB,” said Capt. Selina Tolonen, PAO with 2nd AAB and a Fla. native, who was stationed at FOB Justice from October 2008 to April 2009. “I especially remember an older man who once took the time to show me pictures of his family, and a memo he carried around that was signed by a bn. cmdr., stationed on JSS Justice long before I was. That memo meant a great deal to the man," said Tolonen. “It was falling apart, but it stated that he helped soldiers during the invasion find a safe haven at FOB Justice, and that he provided them with water.”

Tolonen’s story reflects the level of cooperation that Iraqi citizens, ISF, and American forces established and maintained throughout the years at JSS Justice. The ISF, though separated by concrete barriers from their American counterparts, and occupying their own portion of the base, remained partners in distributing humanitarian aid, training, and conducting full-spectrum ops throughout the area, some of which led to significant results.

Capt. Tim Student, cmdr. of Comanche Troop, 5th Sqdn., 4th Cav. Regt. and a Mo. native, was the last Troop-level cmdr. in charge of the ops being conducted in and around JSS Justice. “I feel like we closed a chapter of the Iraq campaign here,” said Student. “Justice was one of the first bases occupied by U.S. forces after the invasion, and it was good to see the Iraqis taking the challenge of using the base to further their own security.”

Capt. Timothy Student, second from left, meets with IA and local civilian leaders, Sept. 20.

Sgt. Maj. John Garrison, front left, intel sgt. maj. with the 25th ID, presents the coin of military intelligence excellence to Staff Sgt. Maurin Livingston, a linguist with Co A, “Griffin” STB, 2nd AAB, 1st ID, and Wash. native, Sept. 14, 2011, at Camp Liberty. Livingston and 6 fellow Co A “Titan” soldiers were recognized for outstanding service to the USD-C intel effort in support of OND.

BAGHDAD — Titan Co provided intel collection, as well as info flow, to maneuver units and troops on the ground throughout Baghdad prov. “Enough can't be said about the professionalism, discipline, and camaraderie these soldiers have exemplifie, while faced with difficult challenges and situations over this deployment,” said Capt. Jason Cano, cmdr. of Co A, STB and a Texas native.

Garrison began the ceremony with a description of the Military Intel coin for excellence, and what it represents. “No matter your rank or duty position, your job is to protect national security at all costs as an Intel professional,” he said.

After handing out each coin, Lt. Col. James Botters, intel officer with the 25th ID, and Garrison took the time to talk to each Titan soldier individually, as a show of their appreciation for the service that each has provided towards the intel mission within USD-C.

“I think it’s neat to be recognized for all of my hard work over the last 10 months,” said Staff Sgt. Maurin Livingston, a linguist and a Neb. native.

Sgt. Maj. John Garrison addresses soldiers during a coining ceremony at Camp Liberty.

A member of Co B, TF 2-28, 172nd Inf Bde, and Shahi Den, local businessman and elder in the small mountain village of Derka, near COP Zerok, size each other up before hiking back to the COP, Sept. 20. Den and several other elders accompanied the element back to the COP to receive supplies and promote goodwill.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE -- To the U.S. infantry Soldier north-eastern Afghanistan is unforgiving on many levels - extreme weather, isolation and xenophobic tribes, but the true suffering begins and ends with the rugged, soul-sapping terrain. It is a country of severe alpine landscapes that seem to go on forever in merciless, jagged waves of cliff faces, boulder fields and stony hillsides, and yet somehow life took root here eons ago, and never gave up its hold.

Tiny villages carved into the spring-fed nooks and crannies of this harshest of environments, dot the countryside haphazardly like stars dot the sky. In Paktika Province alone there are dozens of them, if not hundreds. Leaders on both sides of the 10-year conflict, that has defined this place to the rest of the world, knew early on that the hearts and minds campaign could be won in these bright green pockets of life.

The small village of Derka is one of these hidden gems. It's a bucolic community of earthen homes seemingly epoxied to the hillsides on either side of a valley that is viridescent with crops, fields of grass and tall shady trees. The inhabitants live off the land, making their homes from the earth itself, and earn what income they can by harvesting pine nuts from the diminutive evergreens that cover the mountainsides.

The dangerous and well-funded Haqqani network, which has close ties to the Taliban, has been invading small villages like Derka for years, to use as staging grounds for attacks on CF. "We have reports that the most active Haqqani element in Paktika could be using Derka as a safe haven," said Capt. Craig Halstead of S.D., cmdr. of Co B, "so going in there could be like taking a baseball bat to a beehive."

The mission was to clear the village and disrupt possible insurgent activity in the area, but also to make contact and convince the small secluded populace that the GoA exists to help them, just as much as the large population centers.

Unfortunately for the Soldiers stationed at COP Zerok, the vast majority of roads in their area of op (AO) are impassable even to the U.S. military's high-tech armored vehicles. "We don't drive here," said Halstead. "If we need to get somewhere outside the wire, we walk."

So, in the cool darkness of night, they walked, and walked, and walked some more, avoiding roads altogether to maximize stealth and security. For 7 hours the element trudged methodically through jumbled, backbreaking streambeds, crossing the running water dozens of times until every boot was soaked through, and every foot was freezing.

Finally, they slipped into the mouth of the small valley that cradles Derka and waited. At dawn the villagers woke to find their little pool of life full of strangers. The ANA and AUP worked fast, sweeping through the buildings and rounding up suspicious individuals, before they could rub the sleep from their eyes.

Despite the unavoidable irritation at the intrusion, care was taken to treat each villager as respectfully as possible.

"Whether or not this first mission to Derka is going to have hugs and kisses all around, we can still have a positive impact on them, so that they want us to come back," said Halstead.

The home of a wealthy merchant that overlooked the valley was chosen to be the center of ops for the day. The U.S. and Afghan forces set up shop in a courtyard, sharing the space with chickens, goats, a camel, and several very unfriendly dogs. Throughout the morning the intel teams collected info, as other Soldiers pulled security. The hillside gave them good vantage of the village and its shy inhabitants.

Children often hide from strangers in these places, but occasionally a few of the braver boys would come out of the woodwork to peer at the goings on of the day, or even approach and speak to the ANA or AUP Soldiers. The boys did not approach the U.S. Soldiers, as these strangers to them were apparently too intimidating to reach out to. According to what the village elders were saying in the courtyard, Derka had never been visited by U.S. ground forces.

Around mid-day Derka received another visitor. Brig. Gen. Gary Volesky, 1st Cav Div Deputy Comm. Gen., had been monitoring the op, and decided to put his own boots on the ground. Volesky was greeted warmly by Armanshah, District chief of police, AUP. The 2 strolled up the hillside together and Volesky asked about enemy activity in the area.

"They're sneaky," said Armanshah. "They come back and forth across the border, and use villages like this one to hide in, but we're good at finding them."

"Do you need anything?" Volesky asked the police chief. "Only that you and I be blessed with long, happy lives," smiled Armanshah. When asked how the Afghan govt can help them, the village elders' requests were equally simple. "They asked for things like rice, flour and cooking oil for their poor," said Sgt. David Vasquez from Texas, 504th Military Intel Co, 172nd Inf. Bde., who sat and talked with many of the village elders for several hours, through an interpreter, Mir Hadelli. "After the initial shock, I think they were happy we came."

'They claim they've never seen any insurgents around here, but many of them have relatives who are involved with either Haqqani or the Taliban," said Hadelli. "Only time will tell if they told us the truth."

"God willing, we can keep the insurgents out of this district," said Armanshah. "I don't know if we'll find any of them in Derka next time. If we do my guys will get rid of them, but the villagers need to help us. They need to stand up and tell the insurgents that they're not welcome here."

"Insurgent orgs like Haqqani and the Taliban are the ones who bring the war to the small villages," said Armanshah. "The people of Derka and their unexpected visitors were all working toward the same goal," he added, "which is, ultimately, peace across Afghanistan for all of its citizens."

By the end of the day, a good portion of the villagers had gone from being openly hostile, to having a better understanding of that common purpose. When the mission ended 26 hours after it began, the people of Derka were left with prayer rugs, winter jackets for their children, and the hope that Afghanistan can finally be peaceful, with Derka resting tranquilly, another jewel in the crown.

Armanshah, police chief with the AUP, speaks with male villagers.

Private 1st Class Jeff Strube of Texas, pulls guard in the scenic village of Derka.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Georgia ADT Soldiers Teach Seed Germination Class to Wardak Farmers

Written by Army Sgt. Brian Glass, TF Patriot

Sgt. Carmen Benson, a horticulture specialist, came up with this training program for a seed germination class at the DAIL compound in Maiden Shahr district, Sept. 21. The Georgia ADT continues working toward building the economy.

WARDAK PROVINCE -- The seed germination class at the DAIL is a result of local farmers expressing concerns about what seeds are good and bad for growing. Sgt. Nathaniel Smith, an NCO-in-charge for Georgia ADT, and Ga. native, helped put this event together to address those concerns.

"The nerkh farmers assoc. approached my predecessor about wheat seed qualities that they were having," said Smith. "So I and Sgt. Carmen Benson put our heads together, and she came up with this training program. "We hope to teach them how to find quality seed, so they can go out on the market, buy 10 seeds and test them to see what percentage they expect to yield from what they plant," continued Smith.

Benson, a Ga. native, not only had the idea for the class, but also taught the class. Benson, who teaches 6th through 8th grade students at South Effington Middle School in Effington County, Ga., fit right in to getting class material across to her students, even if her new students are adult Afghan farmers.

"There were some similarities in teaching, but I really appreciated their professionalism in that they were able to have discussions with me, and they seem very passionate about their jobs," said Benson. "Not only were they learning from me, but I was learning from them as well."

The instruction consisted of an hour of classroom learning, during which Benson showed different types of seeds and what to look for when farming. After that, Benson took her students outside for 2 practical exercises. "We did 2 very basic germination tests," said Benson. "One just requires soil, some sort of pot and some sunlight. You plant 10 seeds or 100 seeds and see how many germinate, which means grow and sprout from the ground. The goal is to have 8 out of 10 germinate, which means you have an 80% germination rate, which is very acceptable for Afghanistan. "The other test was the same concept, except you use a wet paper towel, and you place it in the sun for 5-to-7 days, and evaluate your outcomes after that," continued Benson.

Lal Mohammad, a local farmer in Maiden Shahr, participated in the class. He was happy with what he learned. "Today we got training from the Georgia ADT at the DAIL compound, and it was good training," said Mohammad. "We received training on seed germination and seed quality, showing us how to pick good seed to grow in our land. The training was very needed for us here."

Benson left knowing she gave the local farmers info that would be passed on to other farmers, in hopes they produce better results in the long run. The interaction during the class gives her hope that the farmers will spread the word. Even though she is a teacher, Benson learned something herself.

"I was very happy," said Benson. "I like when they're inquisitive; they don't just take everything I say as right, and they questioned me," said Benson. "They shared their experiences and ways of doing things, such as cleaning and drying their seeds, that I'd never heard of before."

Sgt. Jacob Miller, a cavalry scout for Troop B, 3rd Sqdn, 89th Cav Regt's TF Slugger, and native of Ill., explains to local farmers how an apple presser works, in Maiden Shahr district, Sept. 20. The hope is that the farmers will take unsold apples and turn them into other products to make more money.

WARDAK PROVINCE -- The Soldiers already conducted the class in the Jalrez district, which local villagers came to in good numbers. So, it seemed to be a no brainer to bring the class to Maiden Shahr. "We mostly used it [the class] as a way to establish a connection with the people," said Sgt. Jacob Miller. "We realize agriculture is the driving force in the lives of people here."

Miller, who grew-up with an agricultural background, was the primary instructor for the class in Jalrez. He came to Maiden Shahr to teach the people what they would need to be successful. "We built an apple press to show them methods to save apples that normally spoil," said Miller.

Miller said that the economic benefit for villagers in Maiden Shahr is too great an opportunity for the locals to pass up."Several tons of apples go to waste inside the valley, and giving them options to be able to sell these apples, and still have a product that is marketable for them, will improve their way of life," said Miller. "Selling this apple juice and cider at their local shops will bring in money, and also shorten their hunger season."

Once Miller began demonstrating how to use the apple presser, the locals became interested in seeing how it worked first hand. "Every class starts out the same way, with the Afghans being very stand-offish," Miller said. "Then, their interest takes over, and before we know it they're out there grinding out and pressing apples."

One local famer was excited about the possibility of having an apple presser for all the apples he has. "This is very important, this apple presser," said Ahmed Khalil, a local farmer in Wardak. "I want to make one for my home and use it for my apples."

"The apple presser is easy for the local farmers to make at a low cost to them," said Lt. Col. Steve Kistler, Georgia ADT Wardak provincial cmdr., and Ga. native. "They have the wood," said Kistler. "Some local farmers are carpenters, and can do a better job than we can at putting it (apple presser) together."

Sgt. Nathaniel Smith, NCO-in-charge for the Georgia ADT, and native of Ga., said local farmers can obtain materials for building apple presses themselves, and don't need the ADT to acquire such items. "All we give them is a step by step class on how to build this apple presser."

Once the demo was over and local farmers sampled the apple cider, the villagers came to Miller with questions about how to capitalize on the opportunity. "One of the villagers said he can produce one ton of apple juice from all his bad apples that aren't going to be worth selling whole," said Miller. "He wants to know how he can bottle them, package them, and where to sell them."

That question gave Miller an idea for the next training class he will teach to Afghan farmers. "This class will extend into canning and pasteurizing training," said Miller. Miller and other Georgia ADT personnel walked away from the class confident in the hope their training will help turn around the economy in Maiden Shahr, and keep local farmers from siding with insurgents.

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DVIDS

Marine Sergeant Serves Many Roles

Story and photo by Cpl. Brian Adam Jones

Sgt. James Hayes III is an administrative specialist and aerial observer with Marine Heavy Helicopter Sqdn 464, currently deployed to Camp Bastion. "The hardest part of this deployment is not being with my kids as much as I want, but I know what I'm doing is making it easier for them to sleep at night," Hayes said.

CAMP LEATHERNECK - The CH-53E Super Stallion is the largest helicopter in the U.S. armed forces. Sgt. James Hayes III has to duck when he enters it. “I constantly hit my head walking into the aircraft,” said Hayes, a 6-foot-7-inch native of Calif.

“I like to challenge myself,” said Hayes. “It's important and rewarding to ensure that Marines are properly paid and receive the awards they deserve, but there’s nothing like the feeling you get when you drop a pallet of water or food to a group of Marines in a FOB.”

As an aerial observer, Hayes’ responsibilities include operating the weapons systems on board the aircraft, communicating with pilots on what's going on in the rear of the aircraft, and assisting with loading and unloading.When Hayes checked into MHHS 462 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., in Jan., as an administrative specialist, he immediately volunteered to become part of the aircrew.

Seeking even greater challenges, he then volunteered to join MHHS 464 and deploy to Afghanistan. Hayes passed up scholarship offers. He wanted to be a U.S. Marine. “I always wanted to be in the military,” said Hayes. “I wanted more discipline, and to serve my country.”

Hayes entered with plans of becoming a parachute rigger, but a shoulder injury at the Army Airborne School in Fort Benning, Ga., forced him to switch to the administrative field. Hayes now proudly wears a set of gold jump wings, a glistening reminder of a challenge overcome.

To earn jump wings, a service member must complete 10 static-line jumps. To earn the navy and Marine Corps parachutist insignia, or gold jump wings, a Marine or sailor must complete 5 more. Hayes left Fort Benning having executed 63 static-line jumps. “It was an honor to experience the rich history of the Army jump school,” Hayes said. “I got paid by the Marine Corps to get an adrenaline rush and jump out of airplanes.”

Hayes said he's honored to be in Afghanistan and serve with what he described as a great group of Marines, but he misses his children – Natalie, 6, and Garrett, 4.

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DVIDS

GoA Hosts Health Clinic for Marjah Residents

Story and photos by Sgt. Earnest Barnes

Marjah residents wait in a staging area to see a local physician during a free medical clinic at the Paham Chareh bazaar. A local Afghan physician, Dr. Habivulah, along with other medical professionals, assessed and treated 247 residents of Marjah during the clinic.

MARJAH DISTRICT, Helmand Province — Local reps of the GoA, and service members with 3rd Bn, 6th Marine Regt, hosted a medical clinic recently. Dr. Habivulah, along with a midwife, 2 ANA medical sgts., and several navy corpsmen with 3/6, assessed and treated residents.

“The health initiative allowed local residents to gain trust in their local physicians. Medical education was a little slack during the rule of the insurgency, so a big problem that medical providers have is that the people feel the doctors aren't well educated,” said navy Lt. Robert Sklar, a N.Y. native, and the bn surgeon for 3/6. “What we do with these medical initiatives is get them set up, advertised, and out to the people. Local residents come for the free health care, and they get introduced to the doctors. They see that these doctors are able to treat them; it helps them build trust in their own govt and medical system."

The AnA soldiers, members of the ALP, and the Marines directed the men, women, and children into their respective waiting areas. Corpsmen from 3/6 assessed each patient, and one-by-one they were directed to one of the medical providers. “One medic was the director showing people where to go, and the other was with the corpsmen, and was the adviser,” said Ali Abass. “My medics want more experience, so they worked with the corpsmen to gain experience. We get a lot of experience when we work together as a team.”

Another group of care-giving service members that helped with the clinic was the Female Engagement Team (FET) serving 3/6, who screened females and children prior to them receiving care from the midwife. Additionally, the FET gave hygiene classes to the children, to teach them how to properly brush their teeth, and care for their bodies. The children were all smiles when they left with new toothbrushes and small hygiene items.

“There were a lot of gastrointestinal complaints, acid reflux, muscle pains, and aches,” said Sklar, a 2009 graduate of the N.Y. College of Osteopathic Medicine in Old West Berry, N.Y. “We had one child that was struck by a car 4 days ago and had testicular trauma. Hopefully he moves up to a higher echelon of care. We cleaned it up, but he needs to get to a hospital, and his father was well aware of that.”

Sklar said some of the patients with more serious cases were evaluated, and then recommended to seek more advanced medical care at the hospital in Lashkar Gah, Helmand prov., due to the limited medical supplies and lack of advanced medical equipment available on site. "The clinic brought to light the importance of seeking medical attention when needed, instead of allowing any condition to grow worse," added Sklar.

“This has got them started with the health care they need. It helps them with their education in realizing their health care is important, and helps them realize what needs to be followed up on, and what does not,” said Sklar. “They're gaining awareness and trust in the local doctors.”

The residents were grateful for the treatment they received and let all involved in the medical clinic know how much they appreciated the care. Abdul Halik, a resident of Marjah, said clinics like this help, because people are too poor to afford medical care. “This is very good to help us,” said Abdul Halik. “We're very happy. This is good process for us.”

Sgt. Niamuttllah, an ANA medical sgt., calms an Afghan child after applying burn ointment and bandages. The child had 3rd degree burns on her face when she arrived at the clinic. Sgt. Niamuttllah, with the help of a navy corpsman, treated the child’s wounds, and provided the family with medical supplies to continue treatment.

Dr. Habivulah (left) uses his stethoscope to assess a patient as Petty Officer 3rd Class Kyle Higgins, a Fla. native and corpsman with 3rd Bn, 6th Marine Regt, performs a similar procedure on another man.

JOWZJAN PROVINCE – A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a Taliban facilitator during a security op in Faizabad district. The facilitator planned and conducted attacks against Afghan forces, as well as distributed weapons to subordinate fighters. Additionally, he provided reports to senior Taliban leaders, following attacks in the region.Multiple weapons were confiscated to include an RPG launcher and grenades. The SecFor detained 2 additional suspected insurgents.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor patrol detained 2 insurgents, during an op targeting an insurgent network in Kuz Kunar district, yesterday. The insurgent network is known to facilitate lethal aid used in attacks against ANSF and CF.

COB ADDER – With the sun still low in the sky, soldiers of 2nd Bn, secure the structures of the excavated city of Ur, Dhi Qar prov. This mission: to provide security for a tour of the ancient site. Although originally trained as a personal security detachment, these “Steel Dragons” have performed a variety of missions outside of the safety of COB Adder.

"The force is composed of soldiers from different military jobs, but during this deployment, they've taken on tasks usually reserved for combat troops," said 2nd Lt. Christopher Molaro, 1st plt. leader. The plt. has completed more than 250 missions, including humanitarian and medical assistance, key leader engagements (KLE) with local sheiks and ISF, counter IED, and counter indirect-fire missions.

HB are not shy of accomplishments. "They've delivered tons of flour, rice, beans, sugar, tea, and milk formula to Iraqi villages in need," said Molaro. In July, they uncovered a series of 6 daisy-chained explosively-formed projectiles, and IEDs designed to pierce military armored vehicles. In August, Pfc. Thomas Adgate, a medic with 1st plt., provided medical aid to an Iraqi child who suffered from 2nd and 3rd degree burns, during a humanitarian aid mission.

"Despite reposturing of U.S. forces in Iraq, the unit stays sharp and doesn’t suffer from complacency," said Staff Sgt. James Bryan Moffat, 1st plt. squad leader. “Until the last day, we're constantly trying to improve our position.” Moffat and Molaro agreed that their soldiers have greatly developed, while fulfilling a versatile role during the deployment.

“It’s working with my soldiers,” Molaro said of the greatest benefits of his mission in Iraq; “seeing them grow since the first day we got here, and working with our Iraqi partners, the IA, the IP, building connections more than 6,000 miles from where I live.

Cpl. Kristine Tejeda provides security for a tour of the ancient city of Ur in Dhi Qar prov., Sept. 24.

Second Lt. Christopher Molaro provides security for a tour of the ancient city of Ur.

Cpl. Kristine Tejeda and Pfc. Thomas Adgate climb the steps of the Ziggurat of Ur, to provide security for a tour of the ancient city. Soldiers of Steel Dragon have provided security for more than 20 tours of the ancient city of Ur, since December 2010.

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DVIDS

‘Black Knight’ Battery Assists in Closing JSS Loyalty

Story and photo by 2nd Lt. Jonathan Woislaw

A soldier with Btry A, 1st “First Lightning” Bn, 7th FAR, 2nd AAB, 1st ID, supervises workers removing U.S. military property from Joint Security Station Loyalty, Aug. 26. The task of transferring full control of JSS Loyalty over to the GoI required the combined efforts of Btry A soldiers over a period of many weeks and months.

BAGHDAD — As part of a bn.-wide effort, artillerymen with Btry A’s 2nd Plt. conducted multiple joint force protection patrols, and assisted with property removal during the base’s last few days, and even hours, of USF to Iraq control. All the work culminated in the timely and safe relocation of the First Lightning Bn into other operating locations within USD-C.

“I’m very proud of the way our soldiers responded to the challenge of maintaining a full schedule of combat force protection patrols, while also being able to focus on the extra tasks necessary to sign over the JSS to Iraqi control,” said Staff Sgt. Ryan Becker, a plt. sgt., and an Ohio native.

These extra duties included hours of loading excess equipment and property onto convoys leaving JSS Loyalty, as well as providing security for and supervising contracted workers conducting vital closeout tasks. The transfer of authority at JSS Loyalty was a significant milestone in a year-long deployment for the soldiers of Btry A, and the First Lightning Bn. as a whole.

“Finishing the mission at JSS Loyalty was a proud moment for me, as a cmdr., as we're one step closer to the completion of a successful deployment for the battery and the battalion,” said Capt. Brian Cotter, a R.I. native. “We closed that chapter of the deployment and opened another.”

Since the outflow of personnel from JSS Loyalty began weeks before the final closure, many of Btry A’s soldiers and leaders enjoyed reuniting with comrades that they'd not seen in some time. “I’m glad we've the entire battery together again,” said Sgt. Richard Mcnulty, a section chief with 2nd Plt., and a Penn. native. “Now we can move forward together.”